The primary focus of Enlightenment thinkers was to shape political ideas around reason, individual liberty, and skepticism of traditional authority. Key philosophers such as John Locke, Voltaire, and Montesquieu advocated for concepts like human rights, separation of powers, and social contracts. Their ideas challenged absolute monarchies and laid the groundwork for modern democratic thought. Enlightenment thinkers emphasized empirical evidence and rational discourse as means to improve society and governance, inspiring revolutions and reform movements worldwide. Their influence is evident in foundational documents like the U.S. Declaration of Independence and the French Declaration of the Rights of Man, which reflect Enlightenment ideals.