The foundations of the concept of modern humanism were established during the Renaissance in Europe, which took place in the 14th and 15th centuries. The European Renaissance marks an important step in changing the human thought process. During this period, people focused less on issues of theism and focused more on exercising philosophies of reason, individuality, and learning. Many people developed an interest in a philosophy known as humanism, also called humanist studies or humanities, which questioned the structure of society, particularly in considering the role of the Church. Such ideas provoked reactions from a multitude of people who began to doubt the structure of European society. Indeed, the audience for humanism was large and the audience size subsequently led to the creation of various humanist branches. Although there were many different factions of humanism, each group shared the same basic ideals. As noted earlier, humanism embraced individuality, which appealed to many European citizens. Individualism and the instinct of curiosity were vigorously cultivated (“Renaissance Humanism”). The blind faith and obedience demanded by the Church were replaced by concepts of individuality and reason. Humanist writers glorify the individual and believe that man is the measure of all things and possesses unlimited potential (“AP Test Prep: Humanism in the Renaissance”). This praise of individuals and this belief in the value of the individual appealed to the general public and attracted them to this new way of thinking. It is important to note that while it is true that humanism has questioned certain practices of the Church and promoted the secular principle...... middle of article ......l>. “The Italian Renaissance: key concepts”. Power point. May 13, 2014. “The Last Cato”. The last Cato. Np, and Web. May 13, 2014. .McLeod, Saul. "Humanism." Simply psychology. Np, and Web. May 12, 2014. “Renaissance.” British Humanist Association. Np, and Web. May 13, 2014. “Renaissance Humanism.” Renaissance humanism. Np, and Web. May 8, 2014. .Sautter, Jess. "The era of humanism: the role of Petrarch". Power point. March 14, 2014. Tiller, Charline. "Mr. Renaissance." Erasmus of the Renaissance. Np, March 13, 2002. Web. May 12. 2014.