Voltaire (1694–1778) was an incredibly prolific French Enlightenment philosopher, satirist, and author famous for his wit, advocacy for civil liberties, and relentless work ethic.
He vehemently opposed organized religion’s dogma and injustice, advocating for civil rights and the separation of church and state. His magnum opus, “Candide” (1759), remains a masterpiece of satire, mocking shallow optimism and human folly.
He provided profound insights in a few words, such as “Better is the enemy of good” and “Appreciation is a wonderful thing. It makes what is excellent in others belong to us as well.”
Would society reward a modern Voltaire, or silence him?
