Enlightenment Immanuel Kant Analysis

To be enlightened is to be able to use one’s own understanding without the guidance of another person, according to Immanuel Kant in his essay What is Enlightenment? Gaining this insight involves the courage to go against other people’s ideas but most importantly to go against one’s own beliefs. In order for this to occur, Kant explains that one must have an open mind to explore new ideas. As well, he states that if the public is allowed freedom, enlightenment is bound to occur. Most importantly, Kant points out the reasons that prevent people from thinking for themselves and remaining in a state of immaturity, which include laziness and cowardice. He suggests that the public needs to think freely and act judiciously.
Taking the step toward maturity is a scary and dangerous process for many people. Kant explains why people restrict themselves from enlightenment explaining

First, Kant explains that freedom is imperative, especially in the public use of one’s reason. Supporting this, he states that if people were given freedom to express themselves in public forums without penalization, society will inevitably reach enlightenment. He also recognizes the fact that private use of reason can be restricted in freedom due to the obligation humans have to perform certain duties as members of a larger community. Freedom would prohibit consequences as a result of an opinion. Therefore, one will share ideas without fear and a sense of limitation. Second, Kant states that the leaders of society must be enlightened for the rest of the people to be. Only once the leader is enlightened will the rest of people be granted the necessary freedom to think independently. Specifically, Kant expresses that the century of Frederick, or the age of enlightenment, was a time when the prince did not force religious matters upon people but rather granted them the opportunity to publicly use their