LA ILUSTRACIÓN DEL SIGLO XVIII 🕯¿Pueden las ideas cambiar el mundo?

The Enlightenment: A Cultural and Intellectual Movement

Introduction to the Enlightenment

• The Enlightenment emerged during a time of darkness in Europe, characterized by absolutism and a rigid social structure.

• This movement was led by "the enlightened," individuals with revolutionary ideas that illuminated society, not just in Europe but globally.

Defining the Enlightenment

• The Enlightenment is defined as a cultural, political, social, and economic movement from the 18th century aimed at transforming old regime structures.

• Philosopher Emmanuel Kant described it as humanity's emergence from its self-imposed immaturity under absolute monarchy and religion.

Key Characteristics of the Enlightenment

Use of Reason

• A fundamental characteristic was the emphasis on reason as a means to discover absolute truth, moving away from superstition and tradition.

Freedom and Individuality

• The pursuit of freedom and individual equality became central themes; individuals were encouraged to think independently.

Separation of Powers

• The idea of separating powers into legislative, executive, and judicial branches emerged to prevent absolutism.

National Sovereignty

• Another revolutionary concept was national sovereignty—asserting that state power resides with the people rather than monarchies.

Social Changes Proposed by the Enlightenment

• The movement sought to dismantle rigid class structures in favor of economic class divisions based on wealth.

• Education, culture, and science were emphasized as vital for societal progress.

Dissemination of Enlightenment Ideas

Role of Intellectual Gatherings

• Philosophers shared their ideas in salons which helped spread enlightenment concepts across Europe through an educated bourgeoisie.

Importance of Literature

• Books played a crucial role in disseminating these ideas; notably, "The Encyclopedia" compiled knowledge using reasoned discourse inspired by enlightenment values.

Impact Despite Censorship

The Enlightenment Thinkers

John Locke and the Foundations of Political Thought

• John Locke, an English thinker from the 17th century, is recognized for his contributions to parliamentary theory and the concept of separation of powers as a fundamental right in a just state.

Montesquieu's Influence on Governance

• Montesquieu, a prominent philosopher of the 18th century, also advocated for the division of powers in his significant work "The Spirit of the Laws," emphasizing its importance for a fair government.

Voltaire and Freedom of Thought

• Voltaire was instrumental in promoting freedom of thought and reason against ignorance. Unlike other philosophers, he left behind numerous texts rather than a single defining work.

Rousseau's Concept of National Sovereignty

• Rousseau introduced revolutionary ideas such as national sovereignty, asserting that true power resides with the people rather than monarchies or families. His seminal work "The Social Contract" (1762) articulates this principle.

The Impact on Modern Democracy

• The essence of Rousseau's idea is reflected in modern democratic systems where citizens hold power through representation. This notion is echoed in contemporary constitutions, including Spain’s declaration that sovereignty resides with its people.

Economic Liberalism: Adam Smith's Contributions

• Adam Smith, known as the father of capitalism, argued for economic freedom from control. He believed individuals should pursue their means of survival without restrictions imposed by authorities.

Enlightened Despotism: A Contradiction?

• The video discusses enlightened despotism where absolute monarchs adopted enlightened reforms to improve citizen welfare while maintaining their control over state powers—summarized by the phrase "everything for the people but without the people."

Examples of Enlightened Monarchs

• Notable figures include Charles III of Spain, Frederick II of Prussia, Joseph II of Austria, and Catherine II (Catherine the Great) of Russia who exemplified these principles while retaining absolute authority.

Conclusion: Revolutionary Ideas Emerge