What was the primary basis of authority during the Enlightenment?

During the Enlightenment, the primary basis of authority shifted towards reason. Thinkers of this period emphasized rational thought, scientific inquiry, and empirical evidence as the foundations for understanding the world, rather than relying solely on tradition, faith, or fear. This movement marked a significant transformation in philosophical, political, and social thought, advocating for ideas such as individual rights, liberty, and democracy. Enlightenment philosophers argued that human beings are capable of making rational decisions, and they promoted the idea that reason can lead to progress and improvement in human society. This emphasis on reason was instrumental in challenging existing power structures and norms, and it laid the groundwork for modern democratic thought and civil rights.