Final answer:
The movement is Humanism, which started during the Renaissance in 14th-century Italy and focused on human potential and dignity, advocating self-improvement through the study of classical antiquity.
Step-by-step explanation:
The movement you are referring to is known as Humanism. It originated during the Renaissance era, particularly in 14th-century Italy, and was propagated by figures like Francesco Petrarca, commonly known as Petrarch. Humanism emphasizes the value and dignity of human beings, celebrating their rationality, potential for achievement, and the capacity for self-governance.
This was a marked departure from the medieval conception of humanity's inherent sinfulness and the need for divine intervention. Humanists believed that by studying the literature, philosophy, and history of ancient Greece and Rome, individuals could improve themselves, leading to an improved society. The movement fostered an environment where people believed in the power of human reason and education to bring about societal advancement without solely relying on divine or governmental authority.