The "Age of Reason," also known as the Enlightenment, was an intellectual movement that emerged in the late 17th and 18th centuries. It emphasized reason, science, and individualism over tradition and religious authority. Thinkers like John Locke, Voltaire, and Immanuel Kant challenged established norms and promoted ideas about democracy, human rights, and rational thought. During this period, advancements in various fields, including philosophy, politics, and science, led to significant societal changes. The movement laid the groundwork for modern democratic governments and influenced revolutions, such as the American Revolution and the French Revolution, promoting the idea that reason could improve society.