CBSE 2025 · Region 2 · Set 1 · Q34 · 4 marks

Read the given source and answer the questions that follow : Many historians have argued that print culture created the conditions within which French Revolution occurred. Some arguments have been usually put forward in this context. First : print popularised the ideas of the Enlightenment thinkers. Collectively, their writings provided a critical commentary on tradition, superstition and despotism. They 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. The writings of Voltaire and Rousseau were read widely; and those who read these books saw the world through new eyes, eyes that were questioning, critical and rational. Second : print created a new culture of dialogue and debate. All values, norms and institutions were re-evaluated and discussed by a public that had become aware of the power of reason, and recognised the need to question existing ideas and beliefs. Within this public culture, new ideas of social revolution came into being. ($\displaystyle 34.1$) What impact did the ideas of Enlightenment thinkers have on society ? ($\displaystyle 34.2$) How did print culture affect religion in France ? ($\displaystyle 34.3$) How did print culture contribute to the social revolution in France ?

CBSE Class 10 Social Science past-paper question from the 2025board exam, with the answer as CBSE’s own marking scheme gives it. Where our answers come from.