The central theme of the Enlightenment was the emphasis on reason, individualism, and skepticism of tradition and authority. Thinkers of this era, such as John Locke, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and Voltaire, advocated for rational thought, scientific inquiry, and the questioning of established norms, particularly in relation to politics, religion, and education. The Enlightenment sought to challenge the doctrine of divine rights and absolute monarchies, promoting the idea of democracy and human rights. It significantly influenced the development of modern scientific, political, and philosophical thought, laying the groundwork for significant societal changes, including revolutions in America and France.