Which statement BEST explains the relationship between Enlightenment thought and the religious establishment during the 18th century?
A. Enlightenment thinkers joined forces with the church to uphold the moral authority of the
church and European monarchs.
B. Enlightenment thought, due to its roots in religious philosophy, helped to soothe growing
frustration with European monarchies.
C. Enlightenment thought, because of its roots in science and reason, challenged the prevailing
authority of the church.
D. The religious establishment in 18th century Europe began to incorporate science and reason
into its philosophy, creating a new religious movement that would spread to America.