Which phrases best describe the goals of the Enlightenment

Subject : History

Question: Which phrases best describe the goals of the Enlightenment? Check all that apply.

A) to preserve the divine right of kings

B) to understand the world from a secular perspective

C) to examine the natural rights that humans possess

D) to uphold past principles without examination

E) to question the source of authority

Expert Verified Solution:

The correct answers are:

B) To understand the world from a secular perspective

C) To examine the natural rights that humans possess

E) To question the source of authority

Explanation:

The Enlightenment was a philosophical movement in the 17th and 18th centuries that emphasized reason, individualism, and skepticism of traditional authority. The goals of the Enlightenment included:

B) To understand the world from a secular perspective: Enlightenment thinkers sought to explain the world through reason, science, and observation rather than relying solely on religious or divine explanations.

C) To examine the natural rights that humans possess: Enlightenment philosophers like John Locke emphasized the idea that humans have inherent rights, such as life, liberty, and property, which should be protected by governments.

E) To question the source of authority: Enlightenment thinkers often challenged traditional sources of authority, such as monarchies and the church, advocating for governments based on reason and the consent of the governed.

The other options are contrary to the goals of the Enlightenment:

A) To preserve the divine right of kings: The Enlightenment challenged the divine right of kings, promoting the idea that authority should be based on reason and the will of the people.

D) To uphold past principles without examination: The Enlightenment encouraged critical thinking and questioning of traditional beliefs, rather than upholding them without examination.