Science, philosophy, and government all underwent upheavals during the Enlightenment era in Europe, which lasted from the late 1600s to the early 1800s. It was known at the time as a new “Age of Reason'' that centered rational thought above all else.
The Enlightenment was sparked by seminal works such as Isaac Newton’s Principia Mathematica, which introduced his laws of motion and gravity, and English philosopher John Locke’s essays on humans’ inherent right to freedom, which inspired Thomas Jefferson and other American revolutionaries in their pursuit of independence.
The great thinkers of the time took different stances on many topics, but largely upheld the importance of liberty, self-determination, and free thought over adherence to tradition. From this vantage point, they reimagined the individual's place in society and the universe. These shifts in perspective led more people to question established authority and power structures as well as the unity of church and state, and they were key drivers of the political transformation in France, America, and other regions.
From the widespread adoption of the scientific method to the U.S. Revolutionary War, the Enlightenment saw significant cultural changes and major advancements in human knowledge and understanding. Through the 12 quotes below, we learn what key Enlightenment thinkers had to say about freedom, truth, happiness, and other intangible and essential elements of life.
I think, therefore I am.René Descartes
French mathematician and philosopher René Descartes was known for his rationalist system of thought.
The end of law is not to abolish or restrain, but to preserve and enlarge freedom.John Locke
John Locke was an English philosopher who argued that freedom is an ingrained human right.
Happiest are the people who give most happiness to others.Denis Diderot
French philosopher Denis Diderot was the driving force behind the Encyclopédie, an ambitious encyclopedia published in France.
Two things fill the mind with ever new and increasing wonder and awe — the starry heavens above me and the moral law within me.Immanuel Kant
Immanuel Kant was a German philosopher who believed in a supreme, uncompromising principle of morality.
There never was a good war or a bad peace.Benjamin Franklin
Benjamin Franklin was a scientist, political philosopher, polymath, and U.S. Founding Father.
Of all the things that are beyond my power, I value nothing more highly than to be allowed the honor of entering into bonds of friendship with people who sincerely love truth.Baruch Spinoza
Baruch Spinoza was a Dutch philosopher known for his biblical criticism and writings on ethical relativism.
Surely something resides in this heart that is not perishable, and life is more than a dream.Mary Wollstonecraft
Mary Wollstonecraft was an English philosopher and women’s rights activist who famously wrote A Vindication of the Rights of Woman.
Great things are achieved only when we take great risks.Frederick II of Prussia
Frederick II led his country during multiple wars, promoted religious tolerance, and established a German code of law while participating in the great philosophical debates of the day.
If I have seen further it is by standing on the shoulders of giants.Isaac Newton
English scientist and philosopher Isaac Newton contributed significantly to humankind’s understanding of gravity, motion, and other laws of nature.
Genius is nothing else than a great aptitude for patience.Georges-Louis Leclerc
Georges-Louis Leclerc was a French scientist and author who published extensive volumes of natural history.
A wise man's kingdom is his own breast.David Hume
David Hume was a Scottish philosopher who, like other empiricists, believed all human knowledge was derived from direct experience.
The God who gave us life, gave us liberty at the same time; the hand of force may destroy, but cannot disjoin them.Thomas Jefferson,
Founding Father and third President of the United States, Thomas Jefferson was also the principal author of the Declaration of Independence.
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