Final answer:
Option (b), During the Renaissance, the philosophy of humanism emphasized the value of the individual, advocating for personal improvement through the study of classical texts to contribute positively to society.
Step-by-step explanation:
Renaissance Humanism and the Value of the Individual
In the Renaissance period, the philosophy of humanism emphasized the value of the individual. Humanism was an intellectual movement that arose in the 14th century in Italy, responding to the medieval scholastic education which was solely utilitarian in nature. Instead, humanism sought to create well-rounded citizens capable of contributing to civic life through the study of humanities, which included grammar, rhetoric, history, poetry, and moral philosophy.
Humanists like Francesco Petrarca (Petrarch) aspired to revive and emulate the cultural legacy of classical antiquity, advocating for the inherent dignity and potential for achievement in every human being. These ideas contrasted the Middle Ages, which were dominated by a collective mindset and a focus on religious devotion. Thus, humanism represents a philosophical shift towards individualism, endorsing the study of classical texts to improve oneself and, by extension, society.
Given this context, the factor emphasized by the philosophy of humanism during the Renaissance was the value of the individual (choice b), rather than superiority of medieval thought, devotion to religion, or obedience to government officials. Humanists believed that by studying ancient Greek and Roman literature and philosophy, people could become better individuals and therefore contribute more significantly to the improvement of their societies.