The US Constitutional Convention (also known as the Philadelphia Convention) was one of the most significant events of American history. Its consequence was the creation of the Constitution of the United States. Both the Constitution and the Convention were direct heirs of the ideas of Enlightenment that the delegates shared. Some of those ideas were:
A belief in popular rule: The belief in democratic rule comes from the idea that all men are equal and free, and as such, they deserve to be ruled by the people they chose. Also, the belief in the innate capacities of men meant that they thought every person, with some instruction, could be capable enough to participate in political life.
Belief in progress: One of the most significant consequences of believing in human capacity is the fact that progress is attainable, as long as men work together towards the common good.
Belief in science: The method that the delegates followed in their discussions (debate, argumentation, etc.) is a direct consequence of their trust in the scientific method. The development of science not only brought a trust in method, but also a renewed appreciation of study and discussion.
