Voltaire, the Great Thinker

Posted by Tel Asiado Nov 21, 2008

This day, November 21 (1694-1778), is the birthday of Voltaire, French philosopher, historian, playwright, and poet. He was born Francois Marie Arouet, in Paris.

Voltaire helped sparked the Enlightenment in France and he was known for his wit and brilliance. He spent most of the later years of his life in exile, after the publication of his Philosophical Letters (1734). He wrote most of his work in England.

His ethical philosophy was founded on toleration and practical humanitarianism as opposed to any dogmatic theology. He signified this in his Essay on Morals (1756).

One of Voltaire's famous quotes:

"To succeed in the world it is not enough to be stupid, you must also be well-mannered."

Here's a full article of Voltaire --- Voltaire and the Age of Reason.