Enlightenment Many principles that came from Enlightenment, an 18th century movement that emphasized the use of reason and scientific method to obtain knowledge, in Europe can be found even today in the foundation of America. Many Puritan, or other strong religious groups, beliefs were used to shape the government and society of the colonies. In the early 1700’s, ministers first began supporting the studies of science for medical purposes. By the end of the century, some ministers even doubted the divinity of God. John Locke’s protection of the rights to life, liberty, and property were implemented into the opening of the Declaration of Independence. Jean-Jacques Rousseau’s statement that society should be ruled by the “general will” of
