Natural philosophers and enlightenment thinkers
In general, the natural philosophers and Enlightenment thinkers of the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries complemented rather than challenged the religious and political status quo with regard to the operations of the universe and the relationship between the government and the governed. To what extent do you agree with this statement? A successful essay may discuss the scientific revolution and Enlightenment together, in relatively shallow depth, or may choose to separate the intellectual movements and discuss one or the other in greater detail. Whatever the case, be clear on the goals and ideas of your innovators, and discuss “why” or “how” it was that these movements reinforced or undercut existing wisdom on mankind and nature. Please advance a clear thesis supported by examples from lectures and the text.
