INTRODUCTION

The aptly named “Age of Reason” was a century of scientific, political, and philosophical discourse. While many historians also refer to it as the “Enlightenment,” its ideals of exploration, tolerance, individualism, and scientific progress drastically changed the longstanding religious direction of Europe. These ideas were later expanded to other parts of the globe during the 18th century, most notably the United States of America. The writings of the American Bill of Rights and the French Declaration of the Rights of Man and Citizen are just some of the well-known examples of the effects of Enlightenment ideals. The many “enlightened” individuals of the time sparked debates on the separation of powers and a sense of individuality that modern philosophers debate to this day.

However, every action has an equal and opposite reaction. While the Enlightenment had paved the way for modernity and secular thought, there was also a dark side. Such effects of the Enlightenment had resulted in the twisting of scientific, political, and philosophical ideals that can still be felt today. On top of that, not everyone felt the call to be “enlightened,” but rather countered it with fervent religious revivalism. Further understanding of this topic can be displayed in the activities below.

ACTIVITY

Let’s take our time and go over the notable negative effects and counter movements of the Enlightenment:

Racial Sciences

The Great Awakening

Now that we have gone through this activity, let’s answer the following questions in the comment section:

1) Was the creation of racial sciences a natural result or an abnormal construct of the Enlightenment?

2) Why do you think the common people of the United States responded to the Enlightenment with the Great Awakening?

3) Has the rejection of the Enlightenment in the United States changed our modern political discourse in any way?