The Enlightenment was a period of intellectual and philosophical transformation that had a profound impact on political thought. During this era, several key concepts emerged that challenged traditional beliefs about government and power. One of the prominent ideas advocated by Enlightenment thinkers was the concept of social contract theory. This theory, popularized by philosopher Thomas Hobbes, argued that individuals voluntarily enter into a social contract with a government to protect their natural rights and ensure stability and order within society.

According to social contract theory, the government's legitimacy is derived from the consent of the governed. If the government fails to fulfill its obligations and violates natural rights, individuals have the right to rebel or overthrow the ruling authority. This gave rise to the idea of the right to revolution, a concept championed by Enlightenment thinkers such as John Locke.

Another significant aspect of political thought during the Enlightenment was the idea of the separation of powers. This notion, heavily influenced by the works of French philosopher Montesquieu, emphasized the need for a system of checks and balances within government. Montesquieu argued that dividing power among different branches, such as the executive, legislative, and judicial, would prevent any one group from becoming too powerful. This concept greatly influenced the later development of democratic systems, including the constitutional framework of many modern governments.

Enlightenment thinkers also advocated for the protection of individual rights and religious tolerance. Voltaire, a prominent Enlightenment philosopher, famously championed freedom of thought, expression, and religion. He argued that individuals should have the liberty to hold their own beliefs and opinions, even if they differed from the mainstream.

In summary, the Enlightenment had a significant impact on political thought, challenging traditional notions of government and power. Social contract theory, the right to revolution, separation of powers, and the promotion of individual rights and religious tolerance were among the key ideas advanced during this era. These concepts continue to shape modern democratic societies, providing the foundation for the principles of liberty, equality, and the rule of law.