The Modern State, whether absolutist or constitutional, relied on modern science to achieve its goals. Social Contract Theory, epitomized by Thomas Hobbes and John Locke, provided rational and humanist justification for the use of power by the state. Modern science, already rational, became more humanist, increasingly embracing the use of technology to better human lives. Science also increasingly came under the control of the state, although some science promoters resisted. The Enlightenment, with its rational and humanistic focus, seemed to embrace the growing role of the state, but only when the state was reformed in significant ways to achieve progress for humans and natural rights. Why did the Enlightenment come to embody the concept of reform of the modern state?