Enlightenment Thought emerged in the 17th and 18th centuries as a movement emphasizing reason, science, and individualism over tradition and religious dogma, profoundly influencing Western society. This intellectual shift laid the groundwork for modern democracy, human rights, and the scientific method, reshaping philosophy, politics, and the economic landscape.

Enlightenment Thought

17th and 18th centuries

Reason is the cognitive process of looking for explanations, justifications, or causes for beliefs, actions, or phenomena. It is foundational to critical thinking and is essential for logical decision-making and problem-solving.

Reason

Science

Individualism emphasizes the moral worth of the individual, advocating for personal independence and self-reliance as opposed to collective or state control. It is a foundational principle in many Western societies, influencing political, economic, and cultural systems by prioritizing personal freedom and autonomy.

Individualism

Tradition refers to the transmission of customs, beliefs, and cultural practices from one generation to the next, often serving as a means of maintaining social cohesion and identity. While traditions can foster a sense of belonging and continuity, they can also evolve over time in response to changing societal values and external influences.

Tradition

Religious dogma

Western Society

Intellectual shift

Modern Democracy

Human rights are the fundamental rights and freedoms that belong to every person in the world, from birth until death, and they are based on principles of dignity, equality, and mutual respect. These rights are universal, indivisible, and interdependent, meaning they cannot be taken away or denied, and they are essential for the protection of human dignity and the development of individuals and societies.

Human Rights

The scientific method is a systematic approach to inquiry that relies on empirical evidence, observation, and experimentation to formulate and test hypotheses. It is fundamental to scientific research, ensuring that conclusions are based on reproducible and objective findings rather than subjective beliefs.

Scientific Method

Philosophy is the systematic study of fundamental questions concerning existence, knowledge, values, reason, mind, and language. It seeks to explore and understand the underlying principles of reality and human experience through critical analysis, logical argumentation, and reflective thought.

Concepts

Relevant Degrees

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