Enlightenment Ideals: Relevance in Modern Society (Sociology)

This essay examines the enduring relevance of Enlightenment ideals in contemporary society, drawing upon sociological perspectives and historical context. It argues that the principles of the Enlightenment, including the emphasis on reason, individual rights, and democratic governance, continue to shape modern institutions and social structures. The essay explores how the Enlightenment's influence is evident in areas such as governance, religion, and the development of scientific reasoning. It highlights the impact of Enlightenment-inspired revolutions on the establishment of democratic principles and the separation of powers. The essay references key thinkers and historical events to support its claims, demonstrating the lasting legacy of the Enlightenment in shaping the modern world. The essay also discusses the evolution of thought from the age of enlightenment, and how it has shaped the world today.

Running head: SOCIOLOGY 1
Sociology
Student Name
Institution

SOCIOLOGY 2
Make a case about whether or not the ideals of the Enlightenment are still relevant
today
The idea of enlightenment is still relevant today since various principles of governance,
religion, and history used today are anchored on the age of enlightenment reasoning (Pagden,
2013). Firstly, the idea of enlightenment leads to an understanding of various issues in human
history hence the growth of human intellectual reason that is applied today. During the period of
enlightenment, many phylosphers such as René Descartes began to understand the world through
various scientific and phylosophical reasoning. This is still relevant today as discoveries of
within science, history, and religion are still used in research and studies today. Besides, the age
of enlightenment plays a crucial role in defining the difference between various social aspects
such as religion, politics, and governance. As scholars begin to understand the world state was
separated from religious units such as Christianity. Separating religion from the government is
still key in the current society and operates independently (Roberson, 2016).
Secondly, the idea of enlightenment is still relevant today as it inspired a various
revolution that still forms part of society today. The revolution that was triggered by the spirit of
enlightenment leads to the idea of liberty and equity that forms the basis of the constitution of the
United States of America. For instance, the reasoning of John Locke demostrate is connected to
revolution in Europe that led to overthrowing of the monarch to establish a rule of “general will”.
This idea forms the foundation of separating various arms of government hence current
government organization. In conclusion, the idea of enlightenment is still relevant today as it
defines the history of humanity in terms of governance, scientific reasoning, and religion (Israel,
2011).

SOCIOLOGY 3
Reference
Israel, J.I. (2011). Democratic Enlightenment: Philosophy, Revolution, and Human Rights 1750–
1790. Oxford University Press.
Pagden, A. (2013). The Enlightenment: And Why it Still Matters. Oxford University Press.
p. 100. Retrieved from https://books.google.com/books?
id=GnURng7tsWIC&pg=PA100
Roberson, R. (2016). Enlightened Piety during the Age of Benevolence: The Christian
Knowledge Movement in the British Atlantic World, Church History, 85 (2): 246,
DOI:10.1017/S0009640716000391

SOCIOLOGY 4
Reference