Why did king Louis XV band Diderot's encyclopedia?

Answer 1

King Louis XV banned Diderot's Encyclopedia primarily because it promoted Enlightenment ideas that challenged the traditional authority of the monarchy and the Church. The work contained articles that advocated for reason, scientific thought, and skepticism towards established institutions, which were seen as a threat to the social order. Additionally, the Encyclopedia's critical examination of religion and government was viewed as potentially inciting dissent among the populace. This censorship reflected the broader struggle between Enlightenment thinkers and the conservative forces of the time.