The Myth of the Great Awakening: Morality in Enlightenment

Introduction: Defining the Great Awakening and the Enlightenment

The Great Awakening was a series of religious revivals that swept through the American colonies in the 18th century, characterized by emotional preaching and a focus on personal faith. This movement emerged in a time when traditional religious institutions were losing their grip on the populace, leading to a surge of individualistic and passionate expressions of faith.

In contrast, the Enlightenment was an intellectual movement that emphasized reason, scientific inquiry, and the rights of individuals. It sought to apply rational thought to all aspects of life, including morality and governance, leading to profound shifts in societal norms and values.

This article explores the interplay between the Great Awakening and Enlightenment morality, revealing how these two movements, often seen as opposing forces, contributed to the moral landscape of the 18th century and beyond.

Historical Context of the Great Awakening

The Great Awakening was not a singular event but a series of revivals that occurred from the 1730s to the 1770s, with notable figures such as Jonathan Edwards and George Whitefield at the forefront. These revivals were marked by large gatherings, emotional sermons, and a call for personal repentance and faith.

The socio-political landscape of 18th-century America was one of change and uncertainty. As the colonies grew, so did a sense of individualism and a questioning of authority, both religious and political. The established churches found their influence waning as new denominations sprang up, each emphasizing personal experience and direct communion with God.

Religious fervor during this time challenged established norms by promoting the idea that salvation was accessible to all, regardless of social standing or church affiliation. This democratization of faith had significant implications for American identity and morality.

Philosophical Foundations of the Enlightenment

The Enlightenment was characterized by the works of key thinkers such as:

• John Locke – Advocated for natural rights and government by consent.
• Voltaire – Critiqued religious dogma and championed freedom of thought.
• Jean-Jacques Rousseau – Explored the concept of the social contract and the importance of individual morality.

These philosophers emphasized reason, scientific inquiry, and individualism, which reshaped concepts of morality and ethics. They argued that human beings could discover moral truths through reason rather than relying solely on religious doctrine.

The Intersection of Religion and Reason

Enlightenment thinkers often held complex views on religion and morality. While some rejected traditional religious beliefs, others sought to synthesize reason and faith. For instance, Jonathan Edwards, a key figure of the Great Awakening, utilized Enlightenment ideas in his sermons, emphasizing the importance of personal experience and rational thought in understanding God.

This intersection resulted in a dynamic discourse where religious sentiment could coexist with rational thought. Enlightenment ideals influenced many religious reformers, who began to advocate for a more reasoned approach to faith, encouraging followers to think critically about their beliefs.

Myth vs. Reality: The Perception of a Moral Crisis

During the Enlightenment, many proponents of the Great Awakening argued that society was experiencing a moral decline, attributing this to the rise of rationalism and secularism. They claimed that the emotional and spiritual fervor of their movement was necessary to reclaim lost values.

However, this narrative of moral crisis can be examined critically. While some critiques of Enlightenment thought highlighted the perceived spiritual emptiness of reason-based ethics, many Enlightenment thinkers argued for a rational approach to morality that did not rely solely on religious frameworks.

In reality, the moral landscape was more nuanced, with both movements contributing to ongoing discussions about ethics and morality without a clear decline or crisis.

Cultural Impact of the Great Awakening on Enlightenment Morality

The Great Awakening had a profound influence on Enlightenment ideas about morality. It fostered a sense of personal responsibility and accountability in ethical matters, emphasizing the importance of individual conscience. Key impacts included:

• A rise in moral reform movements addressing social issues such as slavery and women’s rights.
• The promotion of charitable efforts and community service as expressions of moral duty.
• A blending of emotional experience with rational ethical considerations in public discourse.

Religious revivalism played a crucial role in shaping public ethics, as it encouraged individuals to act based on personal convictions rather than merely adhering to societal norms.

Critiques of the Great Awakening from an Enlightenment Perspective

Enlightenment thinkers often critiqued the revivalist movements of the Great Awakening for their emotionalism and perceived irrationality. They argued for a rational morality that prioritized reason over faith-based ethics. Key critiques included:

• The belief that emotional appeals could lead to fanaticism and irrational behavior.
• The assertion that moral behavior should be based on universal principles rather than specific religious teachings.
• The concern that revivalism undermined the progress achieved through rational thought and scientific inquiry.

This intellectual tension between faith and reason has left a lasting legacy, influencing modern moral philosophy and the ongoing debate regarding the role of religion in ethical discussions.

Case Studies: Notable Figures and Their Moral Philosophies

Notable figures such as George Whitefield and Thomas Jefferson exemplify the synthesis of religious fervor and Enlightenment thought. Whitefield’s emotional preaching drew large crowds and emphasized personal experience in faith, while Jefferson sought to apply Enlightenment principles to governance and ethics.

Contrasting views on morality and ethics can be seen in their works:

• George Whitefield – Emphasized the necessity of a personal relationship with God and the transformative power of faith.
• Thomas Jefferson – Advocated for rational ethics and the separation of church and state, promoting a moral framework based on reason.

These figures illustrate the complex interplay between the two movements and their lasting influence on moral philosophy.

The Legacy of the Great Awakening and Enlightenment in Modern Morality

The Great Awakening and Enlightenment continue to shape contemporary moral discussions. The emphasis on individual rights and personal responsibility from both movements has influenced modern democratic values and ethical frameworks. Key legacies include:

• A continued dialogue between faith and reason in moral philosophy.
• The importance of personal conscience and individual experience in ethical decision-making.
• The evolution of social justice movements that draw on both religious and Enlightenment ideals.

As society grapples with ethical dilemmas today, the legacies of the Great Awakening and Enlightenment offer valuable insights into the complexities of morality in a pluralistic world.