AP Euro chapter 16

Scientific Revolution

A period (1500–1700) called the 'Age of Genius,' where new ideas and discoveries in science changed the way people understood the universe and nature.

Heliocentric Model

The idea, proposed by Copernicus, that the Earth and planets revolve around the Sun.

Geocentric Model

The belief, based on Aristotle’s ideas, that Earth is the center of the universe and everything moves around it.

Law of Inertia

Galileo’s idea that an object in motion stays in motion unless acted on by an outside force.

Kepler’s Laws of Planetary Motion

Mathematical rules developed by Johannes Kepler that explain the elliptical orbits of planets around the Sun.

Experimental Method

Galileo’s approach to learning through experiments and observation rather than relying on established beliefs.

Universal Gravitation

Newton’s concept that every object in the universe attracts every other object, which explains planetary motion.

Empiricism

The idea, promoted by Francis Bacon, that knowledge comes from observation and experimentation.

Cartesian Dualism

Descartes’s belief that the mind and body are separate entities, emphasizing reason over sensory experience.

Enlightenment

A cultural and intellectual movement (1690–1789) focused on reason, science, and progress to improve society.

Skepticism

The idea, promoted by thinkers like Pierre Bayle, that humans cannot know anything for sure.

Deism

The belief that God created the universe but does not interfere with it, like a watchmaker who builds a clock and lets it run.

Natural Rights

John Locke’s idea that all people are born with basic rights, like life, liberty, and property.

Tabula Rasa

Locke’s theory that people are born as blank slates, and their experiences shape who they become.

Separation of Powers

Montesquieu’s idea that government power should be divided into branches to prevent any one group from having too much control.

General Will

Rousseau’s concept that society should prioritize the collective interests of all its members.

Philosophes

Enlightenment thinkers who promoted science, reason, and freedom to improve society.

Salon

A gathering, often hosted by wealthy women, where intellectuals discussed ideas about science, philosophy, and society.

Rationalism

The belief that reason and logic are the primary sources of knowledge.

Scientific Racism

A false belief developed during the Enlightenment that classified humans into hierarchical races based on physical traits.

Social Contract

Rousseau’s idea that people agree to form a government that reflects the collective will of society.

Rococo

A decorative art style with pastel colors and ornate details, popular among elites in the 18th century.

Enlightened Absolutism

A type of monarchy where rulers embraced Enlightenment ideas like reform and progress while maintaining their authority.

Printing Revolution

The spread of ideas made faster and cheaper by the invention of the printing press, which helped circulate knowledge across Europe.