Documentary Account of the German Union

...that one can no longer take a single secure step without bumping into the outposts of some factionThe author uses "faction" to describe divisive political or religious groups that prioritize their own interests over the common good.. That was certainly clear!

Therefore, every honest man should surely work against such factions. His own security and love for his equally honest fellow citizens must compel him to do so. From this perspective, the call to form an association of philanthropic friends of truth is indeed very honorable and highly appropriate for the needs of our time.

However, I find one question unavoidable:
What means will be used to work against such factions in the most certain manner? —

I must ask whether truth and Enlightenmentoriginal: "Aufklärung." This refers to the 18th-century intellectual movement emphasizing reason and individual education as tools for social progress. can be considered thoroughly effective means for this purpose?

I do not believe that these questions appear premature or impertinent, even if I must confess that they smell a little of skepticismA philosophical approach of doubting certain knowledge; here, the author questions if "reason" alone can fix deep social divides.. It is a very sublime...