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How did Rationalist ideas influence the Enlightenment period?

Lynnette Preist

During the Enlightenment period, which was a time of learning and new ideas in Europe, many people were influenced by something called Rationalist ideas. These ideas were all about using reason and logic to understand and solve problems, instead of relying on tradition or superstition.

One important Rationalist thinker was René Descartes, who believed that we should doubt everything we know until we can prove it with our own reason and logic. Another was John Locke, who thought that all people are born with natural rights, like the right to life, liberty, and property.

These Rationalist ideas influenced many areas of life during the Enlightenment period. For example, in politics, some thinkers believed that government should be based on reason and the will of the people, rather than the divine right of kings. This led to the American and French Revolutions, where people fought for their own individual rights and freedoms.

In science, Rationalist ideas led to new discoveries and advancements. Scientists like Isaac Newton used reason and logic to understand the nature of the universe, and made groundbreaking discoveries about gravity and motion.

Overall, Rationalist ideas were a crucial part of the Enlightenment period, and helped to shape the world in many important ways. They encouraged people to question traditional beliefs and ways of thinking, and to use their own reason and logic to solve problems and improve their lives.