What was a key concept promoted by Enlightenment philosophers?

The key concept promoted by Enlightenment philosophers was the use of reason to challenge traditional authority. During the Enlightenment, thinkers such as Voltaire, Rousseau, and Locke emphasized rational thought, individual rights, and the questioning of established norms and institutions, including monarchy and religious doctrine. They believed that through reason and critical thinking, individuals could arrive at truths that contradicted the accepted views of their time, leading to advancements in political theory, science, and human rights. This movement laid the groundwork for modern democratic principles and the promotion of civil liberties, fundamentally altering the relationship between individuals and authority.

Other concepts, such as absolute monarchy and the maintenance of social hierarchies, were often challenged by Enlightenment philosophers rather than promoted. Similarly, Enlightenment thinkers championed science and empirical evidence, advocating for a rational approach to knowledge rather than rejecting it. Therefore, the focus on using reason to question and reform traditional systems highlights the transformative nature of Enlightenment thought.