Modern philosophy refers to a period of philosophical thought that began in the late 16th century and continued into the 18th century. It is characterized by a shift towards reason and individualism, moving away from traditional authority. Key figures like René Descartes and John Locke explored ideas about knowledge, existence, and the nature of reality, laying the groundwork for contemporary thought. This era also saw the rise of empiricism and rationalism, two important schools of thought. Immanuel Kant later synthesized these ideas, arguing that our understanding of the world is shaped by both experience and innate concepts. Modern philosophy has profoundly influenced various fields, including science, politics, and ethics.