Modern thought refers to the intellectual developments and philosophical ideas that emerged primarily from the late 19th century to the present. It encompasses various movements, including existentialism, postmodernism, and analytic philosophy, which challenge traditional beliefs and emphasize individual experience, language, and the subjective nature of reality. This era of thought is characterized by a focus on reason, science, and skepticism towards established norms. Influential figures such as Friedrich Nietzsche, Jean-Paul Sartre, and Ludwig Wittgenstein have shaped contemporary discussions on morality, existence, and the nature of knowledge, reflecting a shift towards questioning absolute truths and embracing complexity.