Enlightenment Dbq Essay

There was once a time where people had no individual rights, also known as the enlightenment period. The enlightenment period was a time also referred to as “The age of reason” where people known as philosophers would meet and discuss politics, religion, economics, and social questions. Accordingly, the main idea of the enlightenment period was the philosophers who discussed ways to alter society. The four main philosophers were; John Locke, Francois-Marie Arouet (Voltaire), Adam Smith, and Mary Wollstonecraft. All four philosophers have different beliefs, but the one thing they all agree on is the believe of individual rights. John Locke was a man who believes all living creatures are equal. Nevertheless, in his writings, he states “There is nothing more evident than the creatures of the same species and rank...should also be equal amongst one another without subordination or subjection.” (Document A) Through the text above Locke discusses that people are people no matter what and we all …show more content…
Consequently, Voltaire writes “If one religion only were allowed in England, the government would very possibly become arbitrary; if there were but two, the people would cut one another's throats; but as there is such multitude, they all live in peace” (Document B) Conversely Voltaire touches on the fact that if people only tolerate those who are the same as themselves there will never be peace in this world. People must tolerate all types of people in order to maintain a functioning society. To Adam Smith individual decision making is a crucial part of society. He supports this so strongly because he believes that people will always do what is best for the people. Smith states “ By pursuing his own interests, he frequently promotes that of society.” (Document C) Through the text Smith writes about how without even thinking humans subconsciously do what is best for