René Descartes is often regarded as the "Father of Modern Philosophy." His work in the 17th century emphasized reason as the foundation of knowledge, notably articulated in his famous dictum, "Cogito, ergo sum" ("I think, therefore I am"). Descartes' method of systematic doubt and emphasis on analytical thinking laid the groundwork for modern scientific inquiry and the development of philosophy as a discipline. His ideas promoted the pursuit of knowledge based on reason rather than tradition, influencing countless philosophers and scientists in subsequent generations, shaping the course of Western thought.