Scientific Revolution

Fueling the Scientific Revolution Age of exploration increased knowledge in astronomy and math Observations of universe by explorers and sailors do not line up with commonly held beliefs from the Church.

New Ideas About the Universe Humanism leads to questioning of old ideas about the universe. Heliocentric Theory sun is center of the universe challenges traditional geocentric theory (earth centered) of universe Copernicus mid 1500’s based on math and rejected by most Galileo early 1600’s used telescope but takes back his ideas to avoid death sentence for contradicting the Catholic Church’s teachings

Copernicus and Galileo

Geocentric vs. Heliocentric

Sir Isaac Newton Sir Isaac Newton Proves gravity and natural laws of the universe

Scientific Method Scientific method (1600’s) Rely on experimentation and observation not past authorities (Church) used to solve problems Rene Descarte Rely on human reason to challenge traditional ideas

Scientific Revolution and the Enlightenment Science was used to discover natural laws Laws that govern human behavior Investigation and observation to solve problems Apply same principles to politics Leads to the Enlightenment (1700’s) Rejection of traditional ideas Support belief in human reason Rationalism = logical thought can lead to truth New views develop on authority, power, government, and law