How Did Natural Law Influence the Age of Enlightenment?

The study of natural law was a key feature of the Age of Enlightenment, playing a pivotal role in shaping the philosophical, theological, and artistic landscape of the era. This period was marked by a profound shift from religious to rationalist thinking, and the examination of natural law was at the heart of this transformation.

The Emergence of Natural Law Theory

During the Enlightenment, numerous treatises on natural law were published, reflecting the intellectual curiosity and fervor of the time. Thinkers such as Hugo Grotius, Thomas Hobbes, and Samuel Pufendorf contributed significantly to this discourse. While these scholars often agreed on fundamental principles, they differed in their secondary interpretations, leading to a more nuanced understanding of human nature.

From Reason Grounded Outside of Man to the Self

The Enlightenment period saw a significant move towards grounding reality in the self, as epitomized by René Descartes' famous statement, “I think, therefore I am.” This philosophical shift marked a departure from external, objective reasoning to an inward exploration of the self. Descartes' assertion prioritized introspective reasoning, representing a turning point in how reality and existence were perceived.

Humanizing Human Nature

Key figures of the Enlightenment, such as Grotius, Hobbes, and Pufendorf, sought to humanize human nature by focusing on what humanity truly was, rather than what it should be according to religious or theological views. These thinkers provided a materialist perspective on human nature, leading to a secular discourse that centered on society and interpersonal interactions.

The Role of Descriptions of Amerindians

A significant influence on the Enlightenment thinkers was the depiction of Amerindians, whom they perceived as representative of humanity in its earliest, pre-civilized state. Descriptions of these indigenous peoples’ societies, which they saw as primitive and grounded in reason rather than divine authority, provided a crucial reference point. Through these descriptions, the Enlightenment thinkers were able to conceptualize humanity's actual nature, including traits like aggression, fear, and competition.

The Cultural and Political Context

The works of natural law scholars were deeply rooted in the tumultuous political and religious landscapes of the time. Notable events such as the Thirty Years' War (1618–1648) and the numerous civil wars in Europe underscored the need for a new understanding of human nature and society. Additionally, the legacy of the Renaissance, combined with the rapid pace of discovery and commercial activity, contributed to the growing separation between theological visions of the world and the material existence of humanity.

The Continued Debate and Influence

The ideas of natural law theorists continued to influence Enlightenment thinkers such as Bernard Mandeville and Jean-Jacques Rousseau. Mandeville's works, for example, often critiqued the Judeo-Christian moral framework, while Rousseau challenged the notion of innate human virtue. These thinkers were part of a broader movement that sought to understand and rationalize human behavior, fostering the growth of secular and rationalist thought.

Conclusion

The Age of Enlightenment was profoundly shaped by the study of natural law, which provided a secular and rational foundation for understanding human nature and society. Through the work of thinkers like Grotius, Hobbes, Pufendorf, and the broader Enlightenment movement, the period marked a shift from theological and dogmatic frameworks to a more empirical and rational approach to philosophy and society. This foundational shift influenced not only the Enlightenment but also the modern Western world.