Enlightenment was time of many philosophers who shared their own ideas on society, religion, science, economics, and government. Some philosophers include Voltaire, Thomas Hobbes, and John Locke. These philosophers shared their opinions, but had many different thoughts on society.
Voltaire was a very famous philosopher. His ideas are still used around the world today.Voltaire was famous for his idea of freedom of speech. He also said people should be able to have their opinions about the government without persecution . Voltaire’s most famous quote, “I do not agree with a word you say, but I will defence to the death your right to say it.” This showed how strongly Voltaire believed in these rights. His thoughts are used in America to this day.
Thomas Hobbes, another philosopher, had different views on society. Hobbes believe all people were naturally cruel, greedy, and selfish. Hobbes believed the government needed to control society or it would end up in chaos. Hobbes felt having an absolute monarch was better to keep people from doing crimes. Hobbes believed people gave up the state of nature for an organized society. Hobbes’s thoughts aren’t used as much anymore today.
John Locke is another famous philosopher who came up with other ideas. Locke believed people had natural rights. Natural rights are rights people have since they are born. Locke believed people could overthrow the government if they violate or take away natural rights. Natural rights included life, liberty, and the right to own property. Natural rights still exist to this day.
Thus, there were many different philosophers during the Enlightenment Era, many thoughts and ideas were very different and some similar. Voltaire, Thomas Hobbes, and John Locke shared very different ideas with the world, some still used todays, and others forgetten over time. Hobbes, Voltaire, and Locke contributed to todays soceities in their own ways.
