Preface.

A 3

...ing representatives to set themselves up as reformers In the 18th-century context, "reformers" often referred to those attempting to reshape social or political structures through Enlightenment principles, sometimes viewed with suspicion by established authorities..

All human beings have a claim to everything good and great that the world and this life can grant, both in the physical and the intellectual realms. Therefore, as soon as individual men enter into a secret alliance original: "geheimes Bündniß." This refers to the various clandestine groups of the era, such as the Illuminati, which were often accused of hoarding knowledge or plotting political change., sequester themselves, and gradually train and recruit others into this alliance, it must have its specific causes. They either wish to act in a way different from what has been done until now, or they wish to possess certain special treasures and certain knowledge alone, withholding them from others. Now, humanity gives us a right to fathom the reasons for their union—whether they are good or bad, useful or dangerous. This right must be granted to everyone, especially to those once chosen as leaders of states, and every citizen must be permitted to draw their attention to it.

Nature and education The "nature vs. nurture" debate (Natur und Erziehung) was a central theme of Enlightenment philosophy regarding how human character and intellect are formed. have not given every person the same strength or the same direction. What one person desires, what one researches, seems unimportant or dangerous to another, or remains hidden from them. Thus, there exist flawed states, false systems, and prejudices.

Now, the question is: who is right? Unfortunately! Often a thousand honest men must...