Final answer:
During the Enlightenment Period, major developments included the rise of rationalism and empiricism in philosophy and science, and the evolution of political theory advocating for human rights and democratic government.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Enlightenment Period
The Enlightenment Period was marked by the emergence of new theories in several domain. In philosophy and the sciences, the period saw an extensive embrace of reason and empiricism. Enlightenment thinkers such as John Locke and Jean-Jacques Rousseau developed theories that advocated for human rights, and were critical of the arbitrary power held by monarchs and the church.
Science also underwent significant transformation, as Enlightenment thought supported the advancement of scientific knowledge through empirical research and observation. This scientific approach was not just theoretical; it led to practical innovations and technologies that precipitated the Industrial Revolution.
Political theory also advanced, with thinkers challenging the divine right of kings and proposing ideas like social contract theory, constitutional government, and separation of powers. These new ideas about governance sowed the seeds for political revolutions, such as the American and French Revolutions, and influenced the construction of modern democratic states.
Ultimately, the Enlightenment propelled a shift from a society governed by tradition and authority to one guided by reason, science, and a belief in the inherent rights and dignity of the individual.