Describe the background conditions that led to the concept of enlightenment during 18th century?

The concept of enlightenment during the 18th century was influenced by a number of background conditions, including:

1. The Scientific Revolution: The Scientific Revolution of the 17th century had challenged traditional beliefs and ways of thinking, leading to a greater emphasis on reason, observation, and empirical evidence. This shift in thinking laid the groundwork for the Enlightenment's focus on rationality and skepticism.

2. The Protestant Reformation: The Protestant Reformation had challenged the authority of the Catholic Church and led to increased religious diversity and tolerance. This atmosphere of religious freedom and questioning of traditional beliefs contributed to the Enlightenment's emphasis on individual autonomy and freedom of thought.

3. The rise of capitalism and the growth of the middle class: The growth of capitalism and the rise of the middle class in Europe created new opportunities for social mobility and economic prosperity. This led to a greater emphasis on individual rights, personal autonomy, and the pursuit of happiness, all of which were central themes of the Enlightenment.

4. Political upheaval and social change: The 18th century was a period of political upheaval and social change, with revolutions, wars, and the rise of new political ideologies such as liberalism and republicanism. These events challenged traditional forms of government and social hierarchy, leading to a greater emphasis on democracy, equality, and human rights.

5. The spread of knowledge and education: The 18th century saw a significant increase in the spread of knowledge and education, with the rise of newspapers, libraries, and universities. This led to a greater emphasis on critical thinking, education, and the dissemination of ideas, all of which were central to the Enlightenment's emphasis on reason and progress.

Intellectual and Philosophical Climate:

- Rationalism: Emphasis on reason and logic as the basis for understanding the world. Philosophers like Descartes and Locke sought to establish a systematic understanding of human knowledge based on clear and distinct ideas.
- Empiricism: Belief that knowledge is derived from sensory experience and observation. Philosophers like Francis Bacon and John Locke argued that humans acquire knowledge through their senses.
- Scientific Revolution: New scientific discoveries and methods challenged traditional beliefs and opened up opportunities for rational inquiry into the natural world.

Social and Political Context:

- Absolute Monarchies: The rise of powerful monarchies in Europe led to a desire for intellectual autonomy. Philosophers sought to challenge state authority and advocate for individual liberty.
- Middle Class Growth: The expansion of trade and commerce created a growing middle class, which had access to education and the leisure time to engage in intellectual pursuits.
- Religious Wars: The devastating wars of religion in Europe, such as the Thirty Years' War, created a yearning for religious tolerance and understanding.

Economic and Technological Developments:

- Capitalism and Industrialization: The rise of capitalism and the Industrial Revolution fostered a belief in progress and the possibility of human advancement.
- Advances in Printing and Publishing: The invention of the printing press and the spread of literacy made it possible for ideas to be widely disseminated and discussed.

Specific Factors:

- French Salon Culture: French salons became gathering places for intellectuals and artists, fostering a vibrant exchange of ideas and challenging traditional norms.
- England's Toleration Act: The Act of Toleration (1689) granted religious freedom to nonconformists, creating a climate of tolerance that encouraged intellectual exploration.
- Isaac Newton's Scientific Discoveries: Newton's groundbreaking work in physics and astronomy provided a scientific foundation for understanding the natural world, inspiring confidence in human reason.