Question

question 14 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. people are better off working independently of one another.
c. the authority of the church is higher than that of the king.
d. humanity can be improved through rational change.

Explanation:

The Enlightenment emphasized reason, science, and progress. It held that through rational thought and action, society and humanity could be improved. Option A is more related to some utopian - like views, not a central Enlightenment idea. Option B goes against the social - contract and communal aspects emphasized during the Enlightenment. Option C was challenged during the Enlightenment as there was a push for the separation of church and state and a reduction in the church's over - arching authority. Option D aligns with the Enlightenment's belief in the power of reason to bring about positive change.

Answer:

D. Humanity can be improved through rational change.