A philosophical movement refers to a collective shift in thought that influences how people understand fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, ethics, and reality. These movements often arise in response to cultural, social, or scientific changes and can lead to the development of new ideas and schools of thought. Examples include Existentialism, Rationalism, and Empiricism. Philosophical movements can be characterized by shared beliefs and methodologies among thinkers and writers. They often involve prominent figures who contribute significantly to the movement's ideas, such as Søren Kierkegaard for Existentialism or René Descartes for Rationalism. These movements shape academic discourse and impact various fields, including politics, art, and science.