The philosophical movement that significantly influenced the European Enlightenment and revolutions is Rationalism. Rationalist thinkers emphasized reason as the primary source of knowledge and urged individuals to challenge traditional beliefs based on faith or superstition. Influential figures like Descartes and Spinoza laid the groundwork for modern philosophy by advocating for critical thinking and the scientific method. This movement fostered ideas that encouraged liberty, equality, and democratic governance, impacting the American and French revolutions. Rationalism paved the way for modern scientific inquiry and philosophical discourse, shaping contemporary thought.