The Enlightenment Also known as the Age of Reason or Aufklärung, a term applied to the period of European intellectual history centered on the mid-18th century. The empiricist philosophy (see empiricism) of John Locke and scientific optimism following Isaac Newton's Principia provided the confidence to deem reason supreme in all departments of intellectual enquiry. Related categories HISTORY OF SCIENCE PHILOSOPHY Also on this site: Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living Encyclopedia of History Transport Concepts & Designs (partner site) |