What legacy did the Enlightenment leave on education?

The Enlightenment significantly transformed education by promoting the idea of critical thinking and the value of public education. Thinkers of the Enlightenment emphasized reason, individualism, and the scientific method, which encouraged people to question traditional authority and seek knowledge through observation and experimentation. This ideological shift led to a broader acceptance of education as a fundamental right, paving the way for the establishment of public educational systems.

The Enlightenment thinkers believed that education should be accessible to all, not just the elite, and they championed the idea that an educated populace was crucial for informed citizenship and democracy. This resulted in a more secular approach to education, moving away from solely religious instruction to include a variety of subjects such as science, philosophy, and literature, fostering critical thinking skills that allowed individuals to analyze and challenge societal norms.

Overall, the legacy of the Enlightenment on education was one of expansion, inclusivity, and a strong emphasis on developing logical reasoning and intellectual independence.