07-20-2007, 10:07 PM
Quote:I believe that political and economic developments laid the groundwork for the enlightenment, and that, at least in Britain, the "order" and "morality" of the Cromwells, or of the Stuarts, was precisely what enlightened thinkers were rebelling against.I would also contrast those societies who enforced uniformity and order, against those who gave their citizens a larger measure of freedom.
Consider what Alexis de Toqueville wrote; HOW RELIGION IN THE UNITED STATES AVAILS ITSELF OF DEMOCRATIC TENDENCIES
You may also enjoy; The Ethics of Liberty by Murray N. Rothbard