A set of philosophical ideas advocated by an influential group of European thinkers in the 18th century, proclaiming the high value of science, reason, and art. Enlightenment philosophers were greatly skeptical of [[religion]], considering it a kind of superstition that led to bad decision-making and poor social, political, and material outcomes. Core to their thinking was the premise that individuals who pursued rational thought and the [[scientific method]] could be the equal to every other member of society, no matter their economic or class standing. See also: [[✳️ Events Home]]