英国文学史启蒙运动英文版.ppt

Enlightenment Thinkers The Enlightenment Summary Objectives How did scientific progress promote trust in human reason? How did the social contract and separation of powers affect views on government? How did new ideas affect society and the economy? Identify the philosophies of major Enlightenment thinkers such as: John Locke, Baron de Montesquieu, Adam Smith. Scientific Revolution Leads to Enlightenment 1500-1700: European scientists using reason to discover laws of nature Very successful: Planetary movements, chemistry, vaccine for smallpox, etc. Early 1700’s: If people used reason to find laws that governed the physical world, why not use reason to discover natural laws? Laws that govern human nature Reformers begin studying human nature and societal problems Major Enlightenment Ideas Every social, political and economic problem could be solved through the use of reason Governments are created to secure an orderly society Separation of powers is the best way to protect human liberties All men are created “free and equal” A free market should be allowed to regulate trade Enlightenment Thinkers John Locke Baron de Montesquieu Voltaire Social Contract Thomas Hobbes John Locke Humans are naturally cruel, greedy and selfish. To escape this “brutish” life people entered into a social contract. Only a powerful government could ensure an orderly society. Believed only an absolute monarchy could keep a society completely orderly. Humans are naturally reasonable, moral and good Humans have natural rights: life liberty and property People form governments to protect natural rights Best government was one with limited power If a government violates people’s natural rights, people have the right to overthrow government Separation of Powers Baron de Montesquieu: Criticized absolute monarchy and admired British government British protected themselves from tyranny by dividing powers of government between three branches: legislative, executive and judicial (misconception) Each