Which of the following is a reform suggested by
Enlightenment thinkers? (1 point)
church-backed government
a focus on emotional expression over rational thought
public education
a return to absolute monarchy
public education
To determine which of the given options is a reform suggested by Enlightenment thinkers, we need to understand what the Enlightenment was and what ideas it promoted.
The Enlightenment was an intellectual and cultural movement that took place in Europe during the 17th and 18th centuries. It focused on reason, individualism, and skepticism towards traditional authority. Enlightenment thinkers believed in the power of reason to improve society and championed concepts such as liberty, equality, and separation of powers.
Now, let's examine each option to see if it aligns with the ideas of Enlightenment thinkers:
1. Church-backed government: Enlightenment thinkers advocated for the separation of church and state. They argued that governments should not be controlled or influenced by religious authorities. Therefore, church-backed government does not align with Enlightenment principles.
2. A focus on emotional expression over rational thought: Enlightenment thinkers emphasized the importance of reason as a guiding principle. They believed that rational thought and evidence-based inquiry were essential for progress. Therefore, a focus on emotional expression over rational thought would not be a reform suggested by Enlightenment thinkers.
3. Public education: This option aligns with the ideas of Enlightenment thinkers. They believed in spreading knowledge and education to the general public as a means to empower individuals and create an enlightened society. Public education was seen as a way to combat ignorance and superstition.
4. A return to absolute monarchy: Enlightenment thinkers were critical of absolute monarchy and advocated for limiting the power of kings and promoting constitutional government. Therefore, a return to absolute monarchy would contradict the ideas of Enlightenment thinkers.
Based on the above analysis, the reform suggested by Enlightenment thinkers among the given options is public education.