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Voltaire
Voltaire was a French philosopher, writer, and historian. Voltaire was famous for his advocacy of civil liberties and his wit.
273 Questions
What ideas did Voltaire have to change the notion of the government?
Voltaire believed in the principles of rule of law, religious toleration, and freedom of speech. He advocated for a separation of powers in government to prevent tyranny and promote individual freedoms. Voltaire also critiqued the monarchy and aristocracy, advocating for more inclusive and representative forms of government.
What ideas were Voltaire famous for?
Francois Marie Arouet (pen name Voltaire) was born on November 21, 1694 in Paris.
Voltaire's intelligence, wit and style made him one of France's greatest writers and philosophers.
Young Francois Marie received his education at "Louis-le-Grand," a Jesuit college in Paris where he said he learned nothing but "Latin and the Stupidities." He left school at 17 and soon made friends among the Parisian aristocrats. His humorous verses made him a favorite in society circles. In 1717, his sharp wit got him into trouble with the authorities. He was imprisoned in the Bastille for eleven months for writing a scathing satire of the French government. During his time in prison Francois Marie wrote "Oedipe" which was to become his first theatrical success, and also adopted his pen name "Voltaire."
In 1726, Voltaire insulted the powerful young nobleman, "Chevalier De Rohan," and was given two options: imprisonment or exile. He chose exile and from 1726 to 1729 lived in England. While in England Voltaire was attracted to the philosophy of John Locke and ideas of mathematician and scientist, Sir Issac Newton. He studied England's Constitutional Monarchy and its religious tolerance. Voltaire was particularly interested in the philosophical rationalism of the time, and in the study of the natural sciences. After returning to Paris he wrote a book praising English customs and institutions. It was interpreted as criticism of the French government, and in 1734 Voltaire was forced to leave Paris again.
At the invitation of a highly-intelligent woman friend, "Marquise du Chatelet," Voltaire moved into her "Chateau de Cirey" near Luneville in eastern France. They studied the natural sciences together for several years. In 1746, Voltaire was voted into the "Academie Francaise." In 1749, after the death of "Marquise du Chatelet" and at the invitation of the King of Prussia, "Frederick the Great," he moved to Potsdam (near Berlin in Germany). In 1753, Voltaire left Potsdam to return to France.
In 1759, Voltaire purchased an estate called "Ferney" near the French-Swiss border where he lived until just before of his death. Ferney soon became the intellectual capital of Europe. Voltaire worked continuously throughout the years, producing a constant flow of books, plays and other publications. He wrote hundreds of letters to his circle of friends. He was always a voice of reason. Voltaire was often an outspoken critic of religious intolerance and persecution.
Voltaire returned to a hero's welcome in Paris at age 83. The excitement of the trip was too much for him and he died in Paris. Because of his criticism of the church Voltaire was denied burial in church ground. He was finally buried at an abbey in Champagne. In 1791, his remains were moved to a resting place at the Pantheon in Paris.
In 1814, a group of "ultras" (a right-wing religious group) stole Voltaire's remains and dumped them in a garbage heap. No one was the wiser for some 50 years. His enormous sarcophagus (opposite Rousseau's) was checked and the remains were gone. His heart, however, had been removed from his body, and now lies in the Bibliotheque Nationale in Paris. His brain was also removed, but after a series of passings-on over 100 years, disappeared after an auction.
When was Extended Play - Cabaret Voltaire EP - created?
Extended Play - Cabaret Voltaire EP - was created in 1978.
What does voltaire quote it is dangerous to be right when the government is wrong mean?
This quote by Voltaire suggests that speaking out against the government when it is wrong can be risky or dangerous, as those in power may not take kindly to criticism. It underscores the idea that challenging authority or standing up for what is right in the face of a corrupt government can have consequences.
What were Voltaire main ideas?
Voltaire's main ideas included advocating for freedom of expression, religious tolerance, and separation of church and state. He believed in the power of reason, criticized superstition and intolerance, and championed individual liberty and justice. Voltaire's writings and activism greatly influenced the Enlightenment movement.
What is Voltaires main idea about religion in sociey?
Voltaire believed that organized religion often led to intolerance, superstition, and the suppression of freedoms. He advocated for a more secular society based on reason, tolerance, and individual liberty. Voltaire supported religious freedom and criticized religious institutions for their abuses of power.
Voltaire was inspired by the ideas of Enlightenment thinkers such as John Locke, Isaac Newton, and Montesquieu. He also drew inspiration from the works of philosophers like Descartes and Leibniz. Additionally, Voltaire's experiences and observations of the political and social climate in France influenced his writing and beliefs.
Who is the last person Voltaire meets?
Voltaire's last meeting was with a priest who attended to him on his deathbed. Despite their differences in beliefs, they reportedly had a respectful conversation before Voltaire died in 1778.
What kind of clause is that deal with current events in an exciting way?
That is a relative clause, specifically a restrictive relative clause, providing essential information about the type of clause being discussed.
What was Voltaire's death bed confession?
Voltaire reportedly did not make a death bed confession. In fact, the popular story of him renouncing his work on his deathbed is likely a myth. Voltaire remained true to his beliefs until the end.
Did Voltaire believe that freedom of speech was important?
We have a natural right to make use of our pens as of our tongue, at our peril, risk and hazard. ~Voltaire, Dictionnaire Philosophique, 1764
I may not agree with what you say, but I will fight to the death your right to say it. ~Voltaire
Did Jean-Paul Sartre have children?
Yes, Jean-Paul Sartre did not have any biological children. However, he had a significant relationship with Simone de Beauvoir, with whom he famously had an open relationship.
What did Voltaire think of divine right?
Voltaire was strongly critical of the concept of divine right, believing that it was a tool used by monarchs to justify their power and suppress dissent. He advocated for the separation of church and state and believed in the importance of individual freedoms and reason over divine authority.
What is the meaning of Voltaire's famous quotation Appreciation is a wonderful thing?
This quote by Voltaire suggests that expressing gratitude and showing appreciation towards others is a positive and powerful thing. It highlights the importance of acknowledging and valuing the efforts and qualities of those around us. Appreciation can strengthen relationships, boost morale, and create a more positive and harmonious environment.
What is Voltaires view of the world?
Voltaire's view of the world was characterized by his belief in reason, tolerance, and freedom of thought. He criticized institutions such as the church and monarchy for their oppression and corruption. He advocated for social and political reforms to create a more just and enlightened society.
Voltaire is expressing the essence of freedom of speech. If people are allowed to speak freely, they must be allowed to say not just those things that we agree with or approve of, but also to say things that we disagree with or disapprove of. Otherwise, we would be putting ourselves in the position of having a veto over what other people are allowed to say, and that is not free speech. We would not like other people to tell us what we may or may not say, and therefore, we must be equally tolerant of others.
How many times did Voltaire go to jail?
Voltaire was imprisoned twice in his life. The first time was in the Bastille in 1717 for insulting Philippe II, Duke of Orléans. The second time was a brief confinement in the Bastille in 1726.
Voltaire used this analogy to emphasize how Frederick the Great's enlightened and rational rule mirrored the intellectual and cultural progress associated with Athens, as opposed to the militaristic and authoritarian reputation of Sparta. It was a way to praise Frederick's promotion of reason, tolerance, and progress in Prussia.
How did the Voltaire's enemies look ridiculous?
Voltaire's enemies looked ridiculous because they often resorted to personal attacks and censorship in response to his wit and sharp criticism. Instead of engaging in intellectual debate, they tried to silence him, which only made them appear petty and insecure. Voltaire's cleverness and boldness made his adversaries seem narrow-minded and backward in comparison.
What did Voltaire believe about the government between state and federal government?
Voltaire believed in a strong, central government as opposed to a system with too much power given to individual states or provinces. He believed that a centralized government was more efficient and could better protect the rights of its citizens.
What is a germinal Voltaire 106 watch?
The Germinal Voltaire 106 watch is a Swiss-made timepiece that features a classic design with a focus on elegance and simplicity. It is known for its high-quality craftsmanship and precision in timekeeping. The watch is named after the French philosopher Voltaire, known for his wit and intelligence.
Did Voltaire ever get mairred?
Yes, Voltaire never got married. He had a long-term relationship with Emilie du Chatelet, a French mathematician and physicist, but they never officially married.
What is the meaning of Voltaire's quote the secret to being boring is to tell everything?
Voltaire's quote suggests that by revealing every detail about oneself or a topic, there is no mystery or intrigue left, thus making it uninteresting or dull. It implies that withholding some information or leaving room for curiosity can make interactions more engaging.
What do you think Voltaire meant by the phrase grow fat on their blood?
Voltaire likely meant that those in power were benefiting from the suffering and exploitation of others, gaining wealth and influence while the oppressed were being harmed or killed. It can be interpreted as a criticism of the greed and selfishness of the ruling class at the expense of the common people.
Who wrote the more the man knows the less he talks?
Oscar Wilde is credited with the quote, "The more a man knows, the less he talks." Wilde was an Irish playwright, poet, and author known for his wit and wisdom.
