What did Enlightenment philosophers often challenge?

Enlightenment philosophers were primarily concerned with questioning and critiquing the established social orders and traditional authority that dominated their societies. They advocated for ideas such as individual rights, freedom of thought, and the principles of democracy, which ran counter to the absolute monarchies and rigid class structures of their time. This challenge to the status quo is evident in the works of thinkers like Voltaire, who critiqued the religious and governmental institutions, and Rousseau, who proposed theories about social contracts and the legitimacy of political power resting with the people. The Enlightenment was a movement that encouraged people to use reason and critical thinking rather than blindly accepting tradition.

In contrast, secularism and rational thought were embraced by these philosophers rather than challenged, as they encouraged the use of reason to understand the world. Technological advancements were often seen as positive by Enlightenment thinkers, correlating with societal progress. Similarly, while some Enlightenment figures commented on religion, the broader movement was more about questioning authority and advocating for reform rather than specifically targeting religious ceremonies. Thus, challenging existing social orders and traditional authority encapsulates the core essence of Enlightenment thought.