ABSTRACT
The Enlightenment was characterized by the efflorescence of a “new science” and “new learning” relevant not just to elites but to colonists from numerous walks of life, including craftsmen and women. One of the most notable developments of this era was peoples’ reaching out to correspond or meet with peer groups as a means of improving themselves, either by discussing the many new books rolling off of the presses or debating issues of moral or civic concern.
