A Rational Demonstration of Irrational Thought

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Voltaire's work Candide is an absurd, irrational story that takes the reader to almost every part of the world in a critical analysis of enlightenment thought. Readers may view Candide as a work that encompasses enlightenment thought. On the contrary however, Candide is indeed a correction and criticism of popular enlightenment ideals. Mainly, Voltaire focuses on the irrationality of the "best of all worlds" philosophy and in the end, concludes that there will never be a utopia on earth. Through an analysis of Pangloss and Eldorado, this will be demonstrated.

Initially, the reader is introduced to Pangloss as the intellectual head of the household who maintains the philosophy that humankind lives in the "best of all possible worlds."1* In the story, Pangloss experiences the tragedy and sorrow that permeates society as he falls from favor, acquires a sexual transmitted disease, and is hanged. Throughout the story, Pangloss maintains this philosophy despite the overwhelming amount of experience that portrays the contrary. The absolute absurdity of this philosophy is e...

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