What influence did Newton have on Enlightenment thinkers?

Newton's influence on Enlightenment thinkers was profound, as he demonstrated the power and effectiveness of scientific reasoning and empirical observation in understanding the natural world. His groundbreaking work in physics and mathematics, particularly through his laws of motion and universal gravitation, provided a framework that emphasized logical thinking, experimentation, and the pursuit of knowledge based on evidence. This encouraged Enlightenment philosophers to apply similar methods to fields beyond science, including politics, ethics, and human behavior, fostering a spirit of inquiry that was central to the Enlightenment.

While other answers touch on various themes of the era, they do not align with the primary impact that Newton had on intellectual thought during the Enlightenment. His contributions were instrumental in shifting the focus toward reason and rational thought, making scientific inquiry a cornerstone for subsequent philosophical explorations, rather than supporting political authority or religious dogma.