Mattie Meyer

W.C. Enlightenment DBQ

Main Ideas of the Enlightenment
"New opinions are always suspected, and usually opposed, without any other reason but because
they are not already common (John Locke). During the Enlightenment Philosophers were always coming
up with new ideas that they shared at salons. In the old order, kings always opposed new ideas if it went
against the church. Four philosophers, John Locke, Voltaire, Adam Smith, and Mary Wollstonecraft, came
up with freedom in different areas that help benefit society. The Enlightenment was a time of sharing
different concepts. The main concept of freedom that influenced the world were government, religion,
economics, and gender equality. This was necessary to advance in society.
Adam Smith made sure his idea of freedom of government was heard to help strengthen the
growing America. (W)e must consider what state all men are naturally in, and that is, a state of perfect
freedom to order their actions, and dispose of their possessions and persons (John Locke). (W)hen the
government is dissolved, the people are at liberty to provide for themselves, by erecting a new legislative,
for the society can never, lose the native and original right it has to preserve itself (John Locke).
they have not only a right to get out of [a failed government], but to prevent it (John Locke). They first
quote proves that the people have freedom to fix the government if needed. In a like manner, the second
proves that we have the freedom to take down or rebuild a government. In addition, the third quote also
proves the people have freedom to prevent a failed government, to give a helping hand to society.
Voltaire believed strongly in freedom of religion. Take a view of the Royal Exchange where the
representatives of all nations meet for the benefit of mankind (Voltaire). There the Presbyterian
confides in the Anabaptist, and the Churchman depends on the Quakers word (Voltaire). If one religion
only were allowed in England, the government would very possibly become arbitrary; if there were but
two, the people would cut anothers throat (Voltaire). The first quote shows how peaceful everyone is at
the Royal Exchange. Furthermore, the second quote shows that people can be different religions, but get
along. Specifically, the third quote proves that if there were only select religions, there would be war.
Adam Smith supported an economic system based on individual decision. [Without government
interference] the obvious and simple system of natural liberty establishes itself of its own accord (Adam
Smith). As every individual, therefore, endeavours as much as he can both to employ his capital
(Adam Smith). By pursuing his own interest he frequently promotes that of the society more
[effectively] than when he really intends to promote it (Adam Smith). The first quote proves that without
government economics run smoothly. Moreover, the second quote establishes that on his own people can
still accomplish economics. Equally important, the third quote shows that people promote economics
more successfully than under the government.
Mary Wollstonecraft pushes towards gender equality in society. To render mankind more
virtuous, and happier of course, both sexes must act from the same principle (Mary Wollstonecraft).
For they are now made inferior by ignorance and low desires, as not to deserve to be ranked with

them (Mary Wollstonecraft). Make them free, and they will be quickly become wise and virtuous
(Mary Wollstonecraft). The first quote proves that a happier society includes gender equality. At the same
time men look down to women because of how society placed them. Perhaps if women were free, as said
in quote three, they would become wise and virtuous.
Although freedom of government, freedom, economic, and gender equality were discussed, it
took a while for these thoughts to be put in action.