Enlightenment Vocab Flashcard

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The Enlightenment

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An intellectual and cultural movement in the 18th century emphasizing reason over superstition and science over blind faith.

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Philosophe

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French word for "philosopher,"

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Natural rights

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God-given rights that can never be taken or given away.

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Absolutism

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A government where unlimited authority is given to a ruler (monarch) not bound by law.

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Liberty

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the power to do as one pleases; freedom from physical restraint.

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Enlightened despot

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Absolute rulers pursuing reforms inspired by the Enlightenment.

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deism

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belief in a supreme being, a creator who does not intervene in the universe.

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Sovereign

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Supreme or ultimate power

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Social Contract

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Citizens agree to follow laws and moral codes in exchange for societal benefits like security and education.

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Separation of powers:

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A model dividing government into branches to prevent any one branch from being too powerful.