After the coming of the print culture, the ideas of scientists and philosophers became more accessible to the common people. Scientific discoveries published by scientists like Isaac Newton influenced a much wider circle of scientifically minded readers.

In their writings, thinkers argued for the rule of reason rather than custom, and demanded that everything be judged through the application of reason and rationality. They attacked the sacred authority of the Church and the despotic power of the state, thus eroding the legitimacy of a social order based on tradition. When people read these books, they saw the world through new eyes, eyes that were questioning, critical and rational.

So some people thought that print culture could change the world, liberate society from despotism and tyranny and herald a time when reason and intellect would rule.