What principle did Voltaire advocate for during the Enlightenment?

Voltaire was a prominent figure during the Enlightenment who championed the principle of separation of church and state. This concept emphasizes the importance of creating a distinction between religious institutions and government functions, advocating for a political structure where religious leaders do not have power over governmental affairs, and vice versa. Voltaire believed that this separation was crucial to protect the freedom of individuals in matters of conscience and to prevent the religious authorities from exerting influence over the laws and policies that govern society.

His advocacy for freedom of speech, tolerance, and reason further intertwined with this principle, as he argued that individuals should be able to express their thoughts without fear of persecution from either the state or religious entities. This vision supports the idea of secular governance, where decisions are made based on reason and human rights rather than religious dogma. The significance of Voltaire's contribution lies in its lasting impact on modern democratic societies, where the separation of church and state remains a core principle of governance.