History

Discussion #1: The Declaration of Independence

The tensions that arose between Great Britain and her North American colonies as a result of taxation and other measures following the Seven Years’ War culminated in war, a movement for independence and the establishment of a new nation. The ideals that fueled the Revolution were grounded in Enlightenment Era thought. These same ideals still shape our vision as we continue to define American Democracy.

To prepare for this post, please review the links below to support your discussion:
Enlightenment Thought
The Declaration of Independence
After you have completed the readings answer ONE of the following questions:

1. How did Enlightenment Era thought influence the Declaration of Independence? In your answer, be sure to address how political thought evolved during the Enlightenment Era and how those shifts are represented within the Declaration of Independence.

2. Are Enlightenment ideals still relevant as a guiding force in current American society? How so? In your answer, please be sure to address current events and issues.

In order to earn the full 100 points (100%) for this assignment, you must:

Directly and completely answer the discussion question. Clearly and accurately explain your answer based on factual information contained in the assigned readings. (80 points)
Students must respond to at least one fellow student’s posting explaining the reason(s) for their agreement or disagreement, with the arguments that have been presented, in order to get full credit for the discussion. (20 points)
Make sure that all statements are supported with facts from the sites provided.

Helpful links:

https://www.ushistory.org/gov/2.asp

https://www.ushistory.org/declaration/document/

ANSWER

The Enlightenment of Ideals

The main enlightenment ideas that are used in the declaration of independence consist of all the ideal that individuals are entitled to varying rights just by virtue of being human beings and the fact that the work of the government is to protect the rights of its own citizens. The enlightenment ideas are still relevant in the American society today since people still need their individual rights. The ideas of enlightenment include the rights of mans, the ideas of equality and liberty, freedom of religion, sovereignty, press and thought and separation of powers.

The age of enlightenment is a philosophical and intellectual movement that dominated the world of ideas in the society. The enlightenment ideals have been centered on toleration, progress, liberty as well as separation of the church and state. Ideally the main goal of the enlightenment ideals include freedom, knowledge and happiness. All men are created equally and they all have unalienable rights. The government is established to protect the citizen rights which include liberty, life and happiness.

The enlightenment ideals have been considered as the turning point in the American society today. The principles of optimism and tolerance have greatly challenged the traditional political and religious values. For instance, the American society is without specific obligations and ambitions linked to religion and politics. This is because the enlightenment of ideas has allowed the individuals to challenge different beliefs. Legal coercion has been reduced through enlightenment of ideas since differences in opinions and global diversity have been allowed.

The enlightenment of ideas has been characterized by its impact on cultural, religious, social and academic institutions. In the current American society, democracy has still been essential since it promotes the fundamental American values such as workers’ rights and religious freedom. It has influenced the modern cultural development since it applies to values such as democracy, justice, equality, dignity, happiness and human rights. The enlightenment of ideas has been essential since it creates a stable, secure and prosperous areas in which the American society advances its national interest.