World Civilizations S…
To do: Make a submission To do: Receive a gra
Select ONE of the following ideas
from the Enlightenment that you
believe had the most impact on the
modern world:

Step 1: Choose the Idea

Step 2: Explain the Idea

• Core Principles: This idea centers on the belief that every person is born with inherent rights—such as freedom of speech, religion, and the right to life and property—which governments must respect and protect.
• Philosophical Roots: Enlightenment thinkers argued that society and governments should be organized to secure these natural rights. This concept underpins modern liberal democracies.

Step 3: Impact on Modern Society

• Political Systems: Modern constitutions often reflect Enlightenment principles. For example, the United States Declaration of Independence states that every individual is endowed with certain inalienable rights, which can be symbolized as:
• Legal Framework: The rule of law and democratic governance are built on frameworks that ensure government accountability and the protection of individual liberties.
• Social Progress: Ideas about equality and freedom have spurred social reforms, driven movements for civil rights, and contributed to a general cultural shift towards valuing human dignity.

Step 4: Conclusion