Final answer:
The philosophers of the Enlightenment had a significant impact on history, ushering in a shift towards democracy, human rights, and scientific progress. They challenged traditional beliefs, advocated for natural rights, and emphasized the use of reason and empirical evidence. Their ideas also played a role in separating philosophy from religion.
Step-by-step explanation:
The philosophers during the Enlightenment had a profound impact on history, as their ideas challenged traditional beliefs and transformed societies. Before the Enlightenment, society was largely governed by absolute monarchies, and there was limited freedom of thought and expression. After the Enlightenment, the principles of reason, science, and individualism became more prominent, leading to a shift towards democracy, human rights, and scientific progress.
One of the key ideas of the Enlightenment was that individuals possess certain natural rights, such as the rights to life, liberty, and property. This concept, advocated by thinkers like John Locke, influenced the development of democratic systems of government, including the American Revolution and the French Revolution.
The Enlightenment also played a role in separating philosophy from religion. Before the Enlightenment, philosophy and religion were often closely intertwined. However, Enlightenment thinkers emphasized the use of reason and empirical evidence to understand the world, challenging traditional religious beliefs and advocating for the separation of church and state.