What philosophies directly contributed to the start of the enlightenment in the 17th century?

Rationalism, empiricism, and skepticism were key philosophical movements that directly contributed to the start of the Enlightenment in the 17th century. Rationalism, exemplified by thinkers like René Descartes, emphasized reason and logic as the primary sources of knowledge. Empiricism, championed by john Locke and David Hume, stressed the importance of sensory experience and observation. Skepticism, with figures like Michel de Montaigne, promoted questioning established beliefs and seeking evidence for truth.