which of the following is a reform suggested by enlightenment thinkers
A. a focus on emotional expression over rational thought
B. religious toleration
C. church-backed government
D. a return to absolute monarchy
The Enlightenment was a period during the 17th and 18th centuries that emphasized reason, science, and humanism. It brought about significant changes in various aspects of society, including politics, religion, and education.
Regarding the suggested reforms by Enlightenment thinkers from the given options, we can assess each one:
A. A focus on emotional expression over rational thought: This option goes against the core principles of the Enlightenment. Enlightenment thinkers placed a strong emphasis on reason and logic as the primary means of understanding and improving the world, so this would not be a suggested reform.
B. Religious toleration: This option aligns with the ideas of the Enlightenment. The Enlightenment promoted religious tolerance and advocated for the freedom to practice different religions without persecution. Many Enlightenment thinkers pushed for the separation of church and state to ensure religious freedom.
C. Church-backed government: This option contradicts the Enlightenment's emphasis on the separation of church and state. Enlightenment thinkers often criticized the church's influence on government and advocated for secular governance based on reason and individual rights.
D. A return to absolute monarchy: This option opposes the Enlightenment's aspirations for political change. The Enlightenment challenged the absolute power of monarchs and sought to establish more democratic and representative forms of government.
Based on the above analysis, the reform suggested by Enlightenment thinkers from the given options is B. Religious toleration.