What are some ways that the ideas of the enlightenment still affect us today?

The idea that knowledge should be gained by systematic study and scientific development, and not be dictated by tradition or religious/dogmatic ideas. The focus on the best ways to shape and develop the minds of children. The policy of popularization and spread of scientific thought and developments through books and journals and the establishment of Public Libraries. The idea that "the public sphere" - basically: participation in Government - should be accessible to all - which at the time meant: to all gentlemen and still firmly excluding the great unwashed masses.

So basically, the Enlightenment is generally seen as the basis of modern scientific and political thought.