Which of the following is a significant outcome of the Enlightenment?

The Enlightenment, which emerged in the late 17th and 18th centuries, was characterized by a shift towards reason, science, and rational thought. A significant outcome of this intellectual movement was the promotion of scientific reasoning and inquiry. Thinkers of the Enlightenment, such as Voltaire, Rousseau, and Newton, emphasized the importance of observation, experimentation, and critical thinking, which laid the groundwork for modern scientific methods. This focus on empirical evidence and logic challenged established norms and traditions, leading to advancements in various fields including natural sciences, philosophy, and social theory.

In contrast, the other options do not align with the central tenets of the Enlightenment. The idea of increased power for the Church contradicts the movement's challenges to religious authority and dogma. The rejection of all forms of government does not reflect the Enlightenment’s engagement with ideas about governance, as many Enlightenment thinkers advocated for the establishment of rational and representative forms of government. Lastly, the emphasis on tradition over progress is contrary to the Enlightenment's core message, which celebrated progress through reason and knowledge rather than adherence to historical practices without question. Thus, the promotion of scientific reasoning and inquiry represents a fundamental outcome of the Enlightenment, shaping the course of Western