Modern Western Philosophy refers to the philosophical thought that emerged in Europe from the late 16th century to the present. It encompasses a wide range of ideas and movements, including Rationalism, Empiricism, and Existentialism. Key figures such as René Descartes, John Locke, and Friedrich Nietzsche have significantly influenced the development of modern philosophical concepts, focusing on knowledge, existence, and ethics. This period is characterized by a shift from religious explanations of the world to a more scientific and secular approach. Philosophers began to emphasize reason and individual experience, leading to discussions about human rights, democracy, and the nature of reality. Movements like Enlightenment and Postmodernism further shaped contemporary thought.