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Condorcet's Revelation: How to Become the Last Witness of the Enlightenment?
Marie Jean-Antoine Nicolas de Carita, Marquis de Condorcet, was an important figure in the Age of Enlightenment. His ideas not only influenced contemporary politics and economics, but also paved the way for equality in today's society. The struggle for freedom provides a profound theoretical foundation. However, what enlightenment can we find in Condorcet's life and thoughts, how can we become a witness of this era and continue to promote human progress?
Condorcet's Background
Condorcet was born in 1743 in the small French town of Ribemen. His wisdom and talent were revealed at a young age. His mother was a devout religious believer, and Condorcet, who lost his father at a young age, grew up under the guidance of his mother. He was educated at Jesuit schools and the Collège de Navarre in Paris, and his analytical abilities were praised by many mathematical giants.
"His support for free markets, public education, and equal rights for men and women made Condorcet a poster child for the Age of Enlightenment."
Political and social advocates
Condorcet was appointed Inspector General of the Paris Mint in 1774, and thereafter turned his attention to politics and philosophy. He is active in promoting human rights, especially the rights of women and black people. Condorcet's series of reform proposals aimed to overthrow the old social structure and move France towards a more democratic and equal direction.
Innovation in election methods
In 1785, Condorcet published "Random Thoughts on the Application of Analysis to Electoral Decisions", in which he expounded the famous Condorcet theorem, emphasizing that in elections, if every voter's judgment is likely to be correct, the population base The increase will be conducive to the correctness of the final decision.
Contribution to gender equality
Condorcet's thoughts were not limited to politics and economics. His views on gender equality were even more far-reaching. His 1790 article "The Naturalization of Female Citizens" advocated that women should be given the right to vote and that basic human rights and social status be extended to women. He believes that women have the same intelligence and potential as men and should not be deprived of any rights because of their gender.
"Human rights should not differ based on gender, religion or skin color, otherwise it cannot be considered true human rights."
The ideal of pursuing progress
Condorcet expounded on the idea of progress in his book Sketches of an Historical Portrait of the Progress of the Human Mind. He emphasized that the expansion of knowledge would not only bring individual freedom and prosperity, but also promote a more just social structure. His belief in science led him to believe that society could progress through education and the sharing of knowledge.
Struggle and perseverance in the French Revolution
When the French Revolution came, Condorcet became one of the important representatives promoting the reconstruction of a rational society. He was elected as a representative to the Legislative Assembly of Paris in 1791. Although he eventually became a wanted person due to political struggles, he died in hiding despite his hard work.
"No matter how hard the situation, a true revolutionary never gives up his ideals."
Influence on later generations
Although Condorcet's life was short, his ideas still had an important influence on the development of feminism and social sciences in later generations. His ideas inspired many social activists and continued to promote thinking and pursuit of human rights, just like an important prophet in the feminist movement.
In the process of exploring Condorcet’s thoughts, we can’t help but think about a question: In today’s world, how can we become witnesses to promote social progress?
