what is enlightenment pdf

"What is Enlightenment?" is an essay written by Immanuel Kant in 1784. In this essay, Kant defines enlightenment as "mans emergence from his self-imposed immaturity". He explains that immaturity is the inability to use ones own understanding without guidance from another. Kant argues that enlightenment is achieved when individuals are able to think for themselves and use their own reason to make decisions, rather than relying on the guidance of others. He also emphasizes the importance of freedom in achieving enlightenment, stating that "if it is only allowed freedom, enlightenment is almost inevitable". Kants essay is considered a key text in the history of the Enlightenment, a period of intellectual and cultural growth in Europe during the 18th century.