What characteristic do coffeehouses and salons share?

Coffeehouses and salons were crucial to the cultural and intellectual exchanges of the Enlightenment era. These venues served as gathering places where individuals could convene to discuss ideas, including philosophy, science, and politics. They facilitated conversations among Enlightenment thinkers, artists, and the general public, promoting the sharing and debate of innovative concepts that challenged traditional norms.

The significance of coffeehouses and salons is noted in how they fostered an environment of intellectual freedom and openness, allowing diverse viewpoints to flourish. This characteristic aligns with the Enlightenment movement, which emphasized reason, individualism, and the questioning of authority. Thus, their roles were not simply for entertainment or limited to political discussion; rather, they were dynamic spaces that contributed significantly to the broader intellectual currents of the time.

While all people were generally welcome in coffeehouses, salons often had more exclusive membership, typically attracting the upper classes, which makes the focus on inclusivity less applicable.