François-Marie Arouet (1694-1778)
Voltaire, born François-Marie Arouet, was a prolific French Enlightenment writer, historian, and philosopher renowned for his wit, his criticism of Christianity—especially the Roman Catholic Church—and his advocacy of freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and separation of church and state.
He was a fervent advocate for civil liberties, including the right to a fair trial, freedom of expression, and freedom of religion. His satirical works and philosophical essays often challenged established institutions and dogmas, making him a controversial yet immensely influential figure of his time and beyond.
"I do not agree with what you have to say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it."
Key Ideas and Contributions
- Freedom of Speech and Religion: Voltaire was a staunch defender of these liberties, arguing that open discourse and tolerance were essential for a just society.
- Critique of Religious Intolerance: He sharply criticized the persecution and dogmatism often associated with organized religion, advocating for reason and secularism.
- Separation of Church and State: Voltaire believed that religious institutions should not hold undue power over political affairs.
- Deism: He subscribed to Deism, the belief in a creator God who does not intervene in the universe, emphasizing reason and observation over revelation.
- Social Justice: Voltaire used his writings to expose and condemn injustices, such as arbitrary arrest, censorship, and torture.
Major Works
Voltaire's literary output was vast, including plays, poems, novels, essays, and historical works. Some of his most notable works include:
- Candide (1759): A satirical novella that mocks optimistic philosophy and critiques various aspects of society, religion, and human nature.
- Letters on the English (1734): A work praising English liberties and comparing them favorably to French society, contributing to the spread of Enlightenment ideas.
- Philosophical Dictionary (1764): A collection of articles covering a wide range of topics, offering his critical and often humorous perspectives.
Voltaire's sharp intellect, unwavering commitment to reason, and powerful prose made him a central figure in the Enlightenment, profoundly influencing subsequent philosophical, political, and social thought. His legacy continues to inspire movements for freedom and tolerance worldwide.