Question

question 18 of 24
which of the following beliefs is most characteristic of the enlightenment of
the 17th and 18th centuries?

a. people are inherently good and need little governance.

b. humanity can be improved through rational change.

c. the authority of the church is higher than that of the king.

d. people are better off working independently of one another.

Explanation:

The Enlightenment emphasized reason, science, and progress. Option A's "little governance" goes against Enlightenment ideas of social contract. Option C upholds church authority, conflicting with Enlightenment's secularism. Option D's "independent work" ignores Enlightenment's focus on societal progress. Option B aligns with the Enlightenment's belief in using reason to better humanity.

Answer:

B. Humanity can be improved through rational change.