Eli’s Mind

(1) What was the Ptolemaic-Aristotelian view of the universe, and how did Copernicus, Kepler, Galileo, and Newton undermine it and institute an alternative?

The Ptolemaic-Aristotelian view held that Earth was at the center of the universe, with celestial bodies moving in perfect circular orbits around it. Copernicus, Kepler, Galileo, and Newton challenged this: Copernicus proposed a heliocentric model, Kepler showed planets moved in elliptical orbits, Galileo’s observations revealed celestial imperfections, and Newton’s laws explained gravitational interactions, ultimately supplanting the old view with a new, evidence-based understanding.

(2) Recent historians of science have revisited the traditional version of the Scientific Revolution and have disputed the standard claim that religion and science were locked in a titanic struggle. What is some of the evidence these scholars have brought forth?

Recent historians of science challenge the traditional view of the Scientific Revolution’s conflict between religion and science. They point to evidence showing religious institutions supported scientific inquiry, many scientists were religious, and there were instances of collaboration and mutual influence between religion and science, suggesting a more nuanced relationship than previously believed.

(3) Describe the main ideas we associate with the Enlightenment.

The Enlightenment emphasized reason, individualism, and freedom of thought, rejecting traditional authority and promoting scientific inquiry, secularism, and humanism. It advocated for liberty, equality, and tolerance, shaping the values of modern democratic societies.