The significant period in European history that witnessed advancements in science and philosophy during the 17th century is known as the Scientific Revolution. This era marked a departure from traditional beliefs and the advent of empirical observation and experimentation. Key figures such as Galileo, Newton, and Descartes contributed to groundbreaking theories that challenged existing paradigms. The revolution laid the groundwork for modern science, influencing not just scientific thought but also philosophical approaches, enabling a shift towards rationalism and the quest for knowledge based on evidence and reason.