The Enlightenment significantly influenced modern political systems by promoting ideas of individual rights, reason, and the social contract. Philosophers like John Locke, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and Montesquieu advocated for democracy, separation of powers, and governance based on the consent of the governed. Their ideas challenged the divine right of kings and traditional authority, laying the groundwork for revolutionary movements, including the American and French Revolutions. The Enlightenment emphasized the importance of liberty, equality, and justice, shaping modern democratic theories and practices that prioritize human rights and participatory governance, making it a crucial period for the development of contemporary political ideals.