File:Philosophes Essay 2.doc

Western Civ Philosophes Project - Essay #2

How did the Philosophes’ ideas contribute to economic, religious, and political liberty?

The Philosophes improved economic, religious, and political liberties during the Enlightenment. Many Philosophes challenged old ideas that the government and church ruled and controlled all with no limit to their power and petitioning for changes.

All of the Philosophes believed that people should choose the type of government they wanted. Some even went further and wanted people to make their own laws in a democracy. This expanse of power by the people let more favorable economic treaties pass, which helped the people.

Most Philosophes were tolerant of all religions. Voltaire wanted people to become tolerant of everyone regardless of their religion or race. Voltaire even went against the powerful Church because they were not tolerant of others. As more people adopted other religions and the power of the church decreased, people were able to believe what they wished and become tolerant to everyone.

The Philosophes wanted government to change, to allow more voices to be heard. Also, the Philosophes pushed governments to grant more freedoms to more people. Most governments let people say and do almost whatever they wanted after the Enlightenment. People were now allowed to make complaints against the government to improve their own lives.

These expanses in economic, religious, and political liberties were caused by the pioneering questioning of the Philosophes of the Enlightenment.