Examine the three themes of the renaissance (humanism. the critical spirit and empiricism). In what ways are these themes reflected in the development of american society between 1660 and 1750?
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To examine the three themes of the Renaissance - humanism, the critical spirit, and empiricism - and their reflection in the development of American society between 1660 and 1750, we'll need to understand what these themes represent and then explore their presence during that historical period.
1. Humanism: Humanism is an intellectual and cultural movement that emphasizes the importance of human values, potential, and achievements. It promotes the study of the humanities, particularly literature, history, and philosophy, as well as a focus on individualism and the holistic development of human beings.
To see how humanism influenced American society during this time period, we can look at the rise of the Enlightenment, which was deeply influenced by Renaissance humanism. Enlightenment thinkers, such as Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson, valued reason, scientific progress, and individual freedoms. This emphasis on reason and individualism can be seen in the development of American political thought, particularly in the ideas present in the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution.
2. The Critical Spirit: The critical spirit involves questioning established beliefs and authority, challenging traditions, and seeking new knowledge through critical thinking. This theme promotes a spirit of skepticism and the constant reevaluation of ideas and knowledge.
In the development of American society between 1660 and 1750, the critical spirit is reflected in the colonial period's intellectual movement known as the Great Awakening. This religious revival movement challenged traditional religious authority and encouraged individuals to question established beliefs and dogma. It sparked a spirit of religious and intellectual independence, laying the groundwork for later movements such as the American Revolution.
3. Empiricism: Empiricism is the philosophical position that emphasizes the primacy of experience and sensory observation in acquiring knowledge. It rejects the idea of innate ideas or preconceived notions and relies on scientific experimentation and evidence to understand the world.
During the period between 1660 and 1750 in American society, empiricism can be observed in the rise of scientific inquiry and exploration. Figures like Benjamin Franklin, who conducted experiments on electricity, and naturalists like John Bartram, who explored and documented North American plant life, relied on observation and experimentation to expand knowledge. This empirical approach to knowledge contributed to a greater understanding of the natural world and helped shape American scientific and intellectual thought.
In summary, the themes of humanism, the critical spirit, and empiricism can be seen in the development of American society between 1660 and 1750 through the rise of Enlightenment thinking, the Great Awakening movement, and the growth of scientific inquiry. These intellectual and cultural movements fostered a spirit of individualism, skepticism, and the pursuit of knowledge, which laid the foundation for the shaping of American society in subsequent years.