Enlightenment played a significant role in modeling western civilization
It is correct to say that Enlightenment played a significant role in modeling western civilization. It became a philosophical drive that conquered the world of thinking in most European countries in the 18th century. Enlightenment incorporated a variety of ideas centered on reason as the main basis of power and legitimacy. Reason and science replaced superstition and blind faith. Enlightenment advanced principles like liberty, tolerance, progress, frat, separation of church and state, and constitutional government. It brought political transformation to the west by presenting democratic ideals and institutions and the formation of modern, liberal democracies. The Enlightenment’s role in influencing the French revolution is contentious amongst historians, but definitely, it directly inspired the revolution.
In the eighteenth century, French people gave up conservative thoughts and started embracing the enlightened opinions. Renaissance reinforced rationalism and the courage of free queries. Other prominent French scholars like Montesquieu, Voltaire, and Rousseau continued to support the cause of Enlightenment. The philosophies of these thinkers were the basis of the French Revolution. The bourgeoisie, a growing merchant/professional class in France, were well educated and familiar with the writings of these French philosophers. It was this bourgeoisie who began to interrogate whether they could also transform their political and social status in France
The French Revolution would not have resulted in enlightenment ideas. It was reason brought about by Enlightenment that gave the people authority to question, hold accountable, and fight for what they believed was right. It is fascinating to notice that, in the video, John Green, argues that the revolution was not primarily about the fancy enlightenment ideas. Lack of food and a weak political system indeed brought harsh economic constraints on the poor. It is equally fair to acknowledge that Enlightenment gave the French people authority and capabilities to question the whole system.