Which Enlightenment thinker discussed the concept of tabula rasa?

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The concept of tabula rasa, which translates to "blank slate," is primarily associated with John Locke. In his philosophical writings, especially in "An Essay Concerning Human Understanding," Locke argued that individuals are born without innate ideas and that knowledge is derived from experience and sensory perception. This idea suggests that human beings shape their understanding and character through their experiences rather than being born with pre-determined traits or knowledge.

Locke's emphasis on the role of education and environment in shaping individuals had a profound influence on modern views of human development and learning. By proposing that knowledge comes from experience, he laid the groundwork for empirical thought in philosophy and education, promoting the belief that individuals can be molded into different kinds of people based on their experiences.

While other Enlightenment thinkers like Rousseau, Voltaire, and Montesquieu made significant contributions to social and political philosophy, they did not articulate the concept of tabula rasa in the same way Locke did. Rousseau focused on the idea of the noble savage and the impact of society on human nature, Voltaire was a proponent of civil liberties and criticism of the Church, and Montesquieu is known for his analysis of government and the separation of powers. Each of their contributions advanced Enlightenment thinking, but

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