During the enlightenment, authors emphasized the use of rational thought and fought for the betterment of society. in light of discarding spiritual devotion and its passivity to the church, how did this movement result in new social and civic freedoms

Enlightenment philosophers were generally opposed to the Catholic Church and organized religion in general. The Catholic Church was seen as an oppressor -- along with the aristocracy -- of individual freedom and reason because of its dogmatism and insistence on being the only source of truth. I hope my answer has come to your help. God bless and have a nice day ahead!