Modern philosophy refers to the period of philosophical thought that emerged in the late 16th century and continued into the 19th century. It is characterized by a focus on reason, individualism, and the scientific method. Key figures include René Descartes, John Locke, and Immanuel Kant, who explored topics such as knowledge, existence, and ethics. This era marked a shift from medieval scholasticism to a more secular approach, emphasizing human experience and observation. Modern philosophy laid the groundwork for contemporary philosophical discussions and influenced various fields, including political theory, epistemology, and metaphysics.