What are the major tenets of the Enlightenment?

The Enlightenment was an intellectual and cultural movement that emerged in the late 17th and 18th centuries in Europe, emphasizing reason, science, and individualism as core principles. The correct answer captures two fundamental tenets of this era: rationalism, which asserts that reason is the primary source of knowledge and understanding; and individualism, which promotes the idea that individuals have the right and capability to think for themselves and shape their own destinies.

Rationalism during the Enlightenment encouraged thinkers to question traditional authority and rely on empirical evidence and logical reasoning. This shift away from reliance on religious doctrine and superstition allowed for advancements in science, philosophy, and social thought, laying the groundwork for modern democracy and human rights. Individualism also played a critical role, as it highlighted the importance of personal freedom and self-expression, which contrasted sharply with the collective identities emphasized in feudal and monarchical societies.

Understanding these tenets is essential to grasping the significant changes in thought and governance that characterized the Enlightenment, including the rise of democratic ideals and the questioning of absolute power.