What is Modernity essays

What is Modernity essays The 17th century was a horrible age of wars and it was during this time period that the 30 Years War took place. Religion also played a large part in modernity. It was starting to separate from the government at this time, and at the same time, the rise of scientific knowledge began. The 18th century is where things really started to take off and is really the beginning of modernity as we know it. Civilization went from horses and carriages in the early 1700s to steam engines by the 1780s. Also, in the early 1700s, art was more neoclassical and governed by the aristocracy, whereas by the late 18th century, art had turned more towards the middle class and romanticism. The 18th century is where modern culture begins with a movement aptly named the Enlightenment. With the Enlightenment came a new use of thought, a more humanistic way of thought. Also with the Enlightenment came the rise of science. Throughout the lifetime of man, we as humans have always been searching for the solid foundation of what our existence is built on. This search became even more important with the new, enlightened form of thinking. Overall there are five parts of the Enlightenment: empiricism, utilitarianism, self-interest, reason, and universalism. Empiricism is knowledge based on the scientific approach. It is always looking for answers through a series of laid out questions. It is very inductive, and after this knowledge of thought has been used, it generally decreases ones spirituality. All the person is seeking out is the proven facts. Utilitarianism is reality based on the greatest good for the greatest number. When searching for the truth, we should find the truth with the most good. John Locke is seen as being a person of utilitarian thought. Self-Interest is a large part of the Enlightenment, mainly due to the book published by Adam Smith in 1776 entitled The Wealth of Nations. This book p...