The Enlightenment was a period between the 17th and 18th century in which philosophers attempted to discover new ways to improve and understand their society. There were four Enlightenment philosophers, John Locke, Voltaire, Adam Smith, and Mary Wollstonecraft. The Enlightenment philosophers believed that individual freedom could improve our society in several areas. These areas included natural rights, freedom of religion, and social equality/ equal learning. First, is the idea that people have the power to create and change the government and that everyone has natural rights or rights that belong to all humans from birth. In Document A John Locke states, “When the government is dissolved, the people are at liberty to provide for themselves, by erecting a new legislative.’’ He also states “Mankind... have not only a right to get out of {a failed government}, but to prevent it.” This means that people have the power to change the way our government works. If our government would fail the power remains within the people to create a new one. Locke recommends that the people elect the members of the …show more content…
It says in Document B that “If one religion only were allowed in England…arbitrary…but two…cut one another’s throats… multitude, they all live happy and in peace.” Furthermore, if people are free to believe in whatever religion they would like, there would be more peace and happiness. Also, he says in Document B, “Royal Exchange in London… where representatives of all nations meet for the benefit of mankind.” Therefore, multiple religions such as the Catholic, Jewish, Muslim, Presbyterian, and Anabaptist all gathered at a trading center for a common cause. That cause was to be able to practice the faith that they believe in, despite their differences this was something all of them were wanting. Voltaire’s main point here is that the more religions there are, the happier and more peaceful the society will