Toward a New Heaven and a New Earth: The Scientific Revolution and the Emergence of Modern Science

A collection of flashcards covering key concepts, figures, and events related to the Scientific Revolution and the emergence of modern science.

What were the Renaissance ideals that influenced scientific thinking?

Logic and rational thought based on observation and experimentation.

Who developed the theory of heliocentrism in the Scientific Revolution?

Copernicus, Galileo, and Newton.

What did William Harvey challenge in his anatomical discoveries?

Galen's idea of the four humors.

What is the 'scientific method'?

A systematic approach to scientific inquiry developed through deductive and inductive reasoning, experimentation, and mathematical proof.

What authority opposed Galileo's heliocentric views?

The Catholic Church.

How did the Scientific Revolution change the medieval worldview?

It shifted the understanding from an earth-centered universe to a sun-centered one.

What are Kepler's three laws of planetary motion?

1) Orbits are elliptical; 2) Planets move faster when closer to the sun; 3) The square of the revolution period is proportional to the cube of the distance from the sun.

What was the impact of the invention of the telescope during the Scientific Revolution?

It allowed for systematic observations of celestial bodies, leading to significant discoveries in astronomy.

What was Descartes' contribution to the Scientific Revolution?

He promoted rationalism and the separation of mind and matter.

What did Francis Bacon advocate for in scientific inquiry?

A construction of knowledge based on inductive reasoning and practical applications.

What was a key factor that allowed new scientific ideas to spread quickly?

The invention of the printing press.

Who said, 'I think, therefore I am'?

Rene Descartes.

What role did women play during the Scientific Revolution?

They participated in scientific discussions and some made significant contributions despite facing restrictions.

What was Isaac Newton known for during the Scientific Revolution?

He formulated the law of universal gravitation and synthesized earlier scientific ideas.

What was the significance of the Scientific Revolution for Western thought?

It paved the way for a secular, rational, and materialistic perspective in modern Western mentality.

Who first published a comprehensive understanding of human anatomy?

Andreas Vesalius.

What effect did Newtonian mechanics have on the concept of the universe?

It established a view of the universe as a great machine operating according to natural laws.

What was the main conflict between the Scientific Revolution and traditional beliefs?

The challenge to religious authorities and their interpretation of the universe.

How did the Royal Society of England contribute to the Scientific Revolution?

It served as a platform for scientific communication and collaboration.