Much of the Enlightenment occurs in French intellectual circles, and major scientific breakthroughs and inventions, such as the discovery of oxygen (Priestly, Scheele; 1775) and the first hot air balloon carrying passengers (Montgolfier brothers, 1783), are achieved by French scientists.

French explorers, such as Bougainville and Lapérouse, take part in the voyages of scientific exploration through maritime expeditions around the globe.

The Enlightenment philosophy, in which reason is advocated as the primary source for legitimacy and authority, undermines the power of and support for the monarchy and helps pave the way for the French Revolution.