Question

How did Enlightenment ideas influence modern beliefs about the importance of education? Support your answer with specific examples and evidence from the lessons.

Answer 1

As seen in lesson 5.05

In the United States, Enlightenment ideas strongly affected the Founding Fathers. American democratic institutions were shaped by students of the Enlightenment. It is probably not a coincidence that both Thomas Jefferson and Benjamin Franklin spent years in France as high-ranking diplomats. Jefferson and Franklin, in their many talents, also displayed features of the "Renaissance man"—an all-around individual of many interests and achievements. In addition to his diplomatic gifts, Jefferson was a well-known writer and architect. In 1800, he was elected the third president of the United States. Franklin was an inspired inventor and scientist. He was also a successful business entrepreneur and an acclaimed writer. Most importantly, perhaps, both men firmly believed in the power of reason.

Answer 2

Enlightenment ideas created a society in which education is valued highly and that believes that everyone should get an education. An example of a modern belief that spans from enlightenment ideas is that education should be free and available to anyone, as seen in numerous countries of the European Union. You did not provide the lesson so i can't really focus on it.