Renaissance thinkers promoted _______, individualism, and secularism.
classicalism, humanism
The Renaissance was a time of intellectual and cultural revival in Europe during the 14th to 17th centuries. Renaissance thinkers championed several key ideas, which include humanism, individualism, and secularism.
Humanism emphasized the importance of human potential, achievements, and a focus on human concerns rather than relying solely on religious teachings. It celebrated human capability, creativity, and the pursuit of knowledge.
Individualism, on the other hand, emphasized the significance of the individual in society. Renaissance thinkers sought to break away from the medieval idea of collective identity, where people were primarily identified by their societal roles or memberships. They promoted the idea that individuals should be recognized for their unique qualities, achievements, and contributions to society.
Secularism, finally, refers to the separation of church and state. Renaissance thinkers questioned the absolute authority of the Catholic Church and sought to establish a more balanced relationship between religious and secular power. They placed importance on worldly matters, namely the affairs of society, politics, arts, and sciences, rather than solely focusing on religious teachings and principles.
To understand the motivations and ideas of Renaissance thinkers, it is helpful to study primary sources, such as their writings, letters, and artworks. Works by Renaissance philosophers like Niccolò Machiavelli and humanists like Desiderius Erasmus provide insights into their thoughts and ideas on individualism, humanism, and secularism. Additionally, studying the historical context and cultural developments of the Renaissance period can provide further understanding of the influences and factors that shaped these ideas.