The central philosophy adopted during the Renaissance period was humanism, emphasizing the value of human beings, individualism, and the study of classical antiquity. Humanists believed in the potential for human achievement and sought to explore the human experience through various disciplines such as literature, philosophy, and the arts. This philosophy shifted focus from primarily religious themes to secular subjects, fostering advancements in critical thinking and creativity. Humanism played a crucial role in shaping modern education and thought, laying the intellectual groundwork for subsequent developments in science, philosophy, and art, which continue to influence contemporary culture and values.