The philosophes were groups of thinkers in 18th century France who met to discuss social and political issues and solutions to social problems. They rejected the ideas of absolute monarchy and favored democracy. Some of the most influential philosophes included Voltaire, Montesquieu, and Rousseau. They believed that reason and science should guide society rather than religion or tradition. Their ideas helped spark the French Revolution by challenging the status quo and authority of the monarchy and church.