What was a hallmark of the Enlightenment period?

The Enlightenment period, which spanned the late 17th to the 18th century, marked a profound transformation in thought that emphasized reason, science, and individual rights over tradition and authority. The hallmark of this era was the belief in the power of human reason to understand and reshape the world, along with a focus on individualism that encouraged people to think for themselves rather than relying on established doctrines or institutions.

This emphasis on reason led to significant developments in various fields, including philosophy, political theory, and the sciences. Thinkers such as John Locke, Voltaire, and Jean-Jacques Rousseau championed ideas about personal freedom, social contract, and the inherent rights of individuals, which laid the groundwork for modern democracy and the questioning of traditional authority.

In contrast, a focus on tradition and authority, strict adherence to religious teachings, or the promotion of absolute monarchy reflect aspects that the Enlightenment actively opposed. Thinkers in this period sought to challenge the status quo, advocating for changes that would lead to greater liberty and rational governance.