Final answer:
Critics of the Catholic Church during the Enlightenment and Reformation sought to challenge the Church's authority and the restrictive social structures of religion, leading to Martin Luther's criticisms and the spread of the Reformation. The Catholic Reformation followed with reforms addressing corruption and affirming Church doctrines. Religion has notably impacted social change, both historically and in modern contexts.
Step-by-step explanation:
Church Reform and the Enlightenment
The critics of the Church, primarily the Catholic Church during the time of the Enlightenment and the Reformation, sought various changes. One of the fundamental changes was challenging the Church's authority and its role in society. Enlightenment thinkers often criticized the Church for suppressing the population through religious dogma and maintaining power hierarchies. Moreover, they desired to dismantle the restrictive social structures of religion.
The Reformation and Its Criticisms
Martin Luther's criticisms focused on the Church's greed and abuse of power. He was vehement in his disapproval of practices such as the sale of indulgences. Luther's translation of the Bible and the spreading of his 95 Theses facilitated a wave of reform that sought to make religious texts accessible to the common people and reduce the Church's grip on political and social life.
Responses to Criticisms
In response to these criticisms, the Catholic Reformation or the Counter-Reformation was introduced. The Council of Trent was a significant event wherein bishops and clerics reaffirmed church doctrines but also addressed corruption and implemented reforms, such as improved clergy education and the prohibition of the sale of indulgences.
Religious Impact on Social Change
The role of religion in social change has been substantial. Religious movements have served both as impetuses for change and as barriers. One notable example includes the role of the church in the civil rights movement in the United States, demonstrating religion's significant impact on societal advancements.