VOLTAIRE VE İNSAN HAKLARI

Abstract

Freedom, tolerance and justice sum up the philosophy of the Enlightenment. The fact that XVIII. Century thought movements take their basis from ‘reason’ and ‘science’ is also indisputable. Their principles have been laid through scientific research. Thus, it may be stated that philosophers of the Era try to explain the situation of humanity and its soul through reason. Voltaire, one of the greatest writers and philosophers of his time, is a great example of the ‘soul’ of the Era through the hundreds of works in various genres. His satiric style, critical outlook, the importance he gives to details, his unique writing talent make him a hero for the supporters of civil and human rights. This study aims to exemplify Voltaire’s wish for a fairer law and his thought against all kinds of discrimination and the resonant of these in the present day.