encyclopédie
The Encyclopédie, ou dictionnaire raisonné des sciences, des arts et des métiers, commonly known as the Encyclopédie, is a monumental French reference work edited by Denis Diderot and Jean le Rond d'Alembert. Published in Paris between 1751 and 1772, it appeared in 28 volumes (17 volumes of text and 11 volumes of plates) and drew on the contributions of numerous scientists, philosophers, and artisans of the Enlightenment. Its aim was to assemble and disseminate knowledge across the sciences, arts, crafts, and social topics, promoting critical thinking, secular thought, and practical improvement of society.
The project sought to present knowledge in a rational, accessible form and to challenge received authority
Censorship and controversy accompanied its publication. The work faced opposition from religious and political authorities in