How did the reformation set the stage for the modern world? give examples

The reformation set the stage for the modern world because people were starting to think for themselves.  A good example of this was the Renaissance was that learning was emphasized during this period.  People started to think for themselves and schools and universities were established further promoted independent thought.  Another was the rise of independent states.  From fragment lands, strong leaders were to unify these territories into one whole country.  With the emergence of these new nations came centralized rule that lessen the influence of the Church as the kings of these countries political power grew.