What was the main thrust of Enlightenment thinking?

The main thrust of Enlightenment thinking centered on the principles of reason and individualism, which was a significant shift from previous societal norms rooted in tradition and hierarchy. Enlightenment philosophers advocated for the use of reason as a tool to understand the world, challenge established norms, and improve society. This emphasis on rational thought encouraged individuals to question authority and tradition, promoting the idea that individuals have the capacity and right to determine their own beliefs and actions.

Key figures such as John Locke, Voltaire, and Immanuel Kant championed the notion of personal liberty, the pursuit of knowledge, and the idea that individuals could shape their own destinies rather than being bound by the dictates of tradition or societal hierarchy. The Enlightenment laid the groundwork for modern democratic principles and the recognition of individual rights, marking a shift away from a focus on community-based values and collective society in favor of the empowerment of the individual.