Which of the following was not one of the key philosophers of the Enlightenment?
The philosopher Machiavelli was not one of the key philosophers of the Enlightenment.
The Enlightenment Movement
The Enlightenment was a significant European intellectual and cultural movement that took place during the 17th and 18th centuries. It began in countries like England and Holland before spreading to France and other parts of Europe. The period was characterized by a focus on the use of reason and scientific methods to address various social, economic, and political challenges.
Key Philosophers of the Enlightenment
Diderot: Denis Diderot, a French philosopher, writer, and art critic, is renowned for his role in co-founding the Encyclopédie, an extensive encyclopedia encompassing the arts, sciences, and humanities.
Montesquieu: Charles-Louis de Secondat, Baron de La Brède et de Montesquieu, a French philosopher, is best known for his theory of the separation of powers.
Voltaire: François-Marie Arouet, also known as Voltaire, a French philosopher, writer, and historian, is celebrated for his defense of civil liberties and criticism of the Catholic Church.
Machiavelli: Niccolò di Bernardo dei Machiavelli, an Italian diplomat, politician, historian, philosopher, writer, and playwright, gained fame for his work "The Prince," a political treatise on acquiring and maintaining power.
In conclusion, among the key philosophers of the Enlightenment, Machiavelli stands out for his unique contributions to political philosophy outside the ideals of the Enlightenment movement. For further details on Machiavelli's significance, please visit our detailed explanation in the provided link.