What was encyclopédie and why was it controversial?

Answer 1

The "Encyclopédie," edited by Denis Diderot and Jean le Rond d'Alembert in the 18th century, was a monumental work that aimed to compile and disseminate knowledge across various fields, embodying the Enlightenment ideals of reason and progress. Its controversial nature stemmed from its challenge to traditional authority, particularly the Church and the monarchy, as it promoted secularism, rational thought, and criticized dogma. The inclusion of articles that questioned established norms and advocated for social and political reform led to significant backlash, including censorship and condemnation from religious and governmental institutions.