What was a common characteristic of Enlightenment thinkers?

Enlightenment thinkers were characterized by their encouragement of scientific inquiry and the use of reason as foundational principles of understanding the world. This intellectual movement, which emerged in the late 17th and 18th centuries, emphasized rational thought, empirical evidence, and the questioning of traditional authority, particularly in matters of government and philosophy.

Prominent figures such as Voltaire, Rousseau, and Locke advocated for the application of reason to all areas of human life, including politics, ethics, and education. They believed that knowledge could be gained through observation and experimentation, leading to improvements in society and human well-being. This focus on rational inquiry laid the groundwork for significant advancements in science and philosophy, promoting ideas such as individual rights and the potential for societal progress, which were pivotal to the development of modern democratic thought.

The incorrect choices reflect beliefs that were either contrary to the Enlightenment ideals or not representative of the movement's overarching philosophy. For instance, belief in aristocratic privilege and support for absolute monarchy are contrary to the Enlightenment's emphasis on equality and rational governance. Similarly, opposition to personal freedoms undermines the Enlightenment thinkers' advocacy for human rights and individual liberties as essential components of a just society.