The philosophy of the French Enlightenment

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In the 18th century, France was in a period of active development of capitalism.At this time the country was preparing for an intense change and restructuring - it ended well-known bourgeois revolution.It was at such an angle and developed the philosophy of the French Enlightenment.

With such a development within the country, as a nation, need some explanation of events, systematization of knowledge.The period of the Renaissance in France is characterized by a very negative attitude to the feudal arrange, to the privileges of the representatives of noble origin.The philosophy of the French Enlightenment criticism of religion and the Church perceived only as an organ of social influence and a way to manipulate people.

On the other hand, the greatest minds of the time believed that the root of all evil in ignorance of ordinary citizens as well as the limitations of mental development interferes with the normal perception of reality, an understanding of their rights as a person.The social philosophy of the French Enlightenment was based on the idea of ​​education.It was assumed that the formation of needs and the nobility and the royal family - they had to explain the ins and outs of government.

philosophy of the French Enlightenment and its main focus .During this period of development it has been clearly formed the three main points of view, each of which had its adherents and followers:

  • Deism - this direction rejected the idea of ​​a personal God and the possibility that the divine has any effect on the course of events;
  • Materialism - developed under the influence of science, especially mechanics.Proponents of this trend believe that philosophy should summarize all scientific data.Of course, categorically rejected the existence of God.The existence of the world, scientists have explained only in terms of natural science;
  • socialist or utopian direction - developed after the revolution;

philosophy of the French Enlightenment: Voltaire .This is probably one of the most famous in the history of culture and philosophy.This famous writer at a specified time refused to religion and its laws, joining a group of deists.Of course, Voltaire did not give up faith in God.But he believed that God only creates the world, asks him some movement, and does not prevent things go their way.

This famous thinker preached humane attitude to the common people.Nevertheless, he believed that only a monarchy - it is the only ideal form of government.The problem, he saw only the rulers and their unwillingness to take care of the poor uneducated people.

philosophy of the French Enlightenment and its representatives .

Zh.Zh.Russo- another fairly well-known philosopher, writer and educator.He rejected the authority of the church for its superstition unjustified brutality and fanaticism.However, he acknowledged that the state needs a religion that would make people productive members of society.He even created the concept of "civil" religion, which involved belief in the afterlife, just to repay the deeds, the reward for good and punishment for evil.

Lamettrie - was a convinced atheist and reject the probability of the existence of God.Moreover, he denied the importance of religion to humanity and believed that this morality comes only with experience.This philosopher was inclined to think that every person is born evil, insidious and perverse.A virtue, and other positive qualities acquired in the course of proper education.

Diderot - the scientist had a slightly different outlook on life.He believed that man is born good by nature.Evil arises when a person growing up.The moral of the nation depends on the laws of social management system and way of life.