Enlightenment is man's release from immaturity that we have created for ourselves. Immaturity is the inability to reason for ourselves without the guidance from another. This need for guidance is self-created, not because of our lack of reason, but because of our lack of bravery to use that reason on our own. The motto of the Enlightenment is this: Have courage to use your own understanding! According to Kant, what did the Enlightenment encourage people to do? Be careful and cautious. Think for themselves. Rely on past ideas and principles. Follow decisions made by others.