What idea is central to the American enlightenment?

The central idea of the American Enlightenment is the belief in reason, science, and individualism as guiding principles for societal progress and governance. Influenced by Enlightenment thinkers, American intellectuals emphasized the importance of rational thought, empirical evidence, and the pursuit of knowledge, which led to advancements in political theory, ethics, and human rights. This period fostered the notion that government should be based on the consent of the governed, promoting ideals of democracy and liberty. Ultimately, the American Enlightenment laid the intellectual groundwork for the American Revolution and the founding principles of the United States.