Discuss the main elements that constitute “Enlightenment” in Kant’s essay. Include such issues as immaturity and guardianship, individual responsibility, freedom of speech, and the socio-political dimensions of Kant’s discussion. Explain the two sides of religion in Kant’s discussion, both as a social force that can limit freedom to think, and as expressing the sacred “calling” of human beings to become more enlightened. You might also address the distinction between the private and public uses of reason, and the illegitimacy of a contract prohibiting “further enlightenment” in religion.
