Freethinkers are individuals who form their beliefs and opinions based on reason, logic, and empirical evidence rather than tradition, authority, or dogma. They often question established norms and seek to understand the world through critical thinking and scientific inquiry. This approach can apply to various areas, including religion, politics, and ethics. The term is often associated with the Enlightenment, a historical period that emphasized reason and individualism. Freethinkers may identify with movements such as secular humanism or atheism, advocating for a society based on rational thought and human rights rather than religious or superstitious beliefs.