Topic 13 Lesson 6

Natural philosophers

Medieval scientists who relied on ancient authorities for scientific knowledge instead of making observations of the natural world.

Scientific Revolution

A period marked by major advancements in scientific thought and the development of the scientific method.

Inductive reasoning

The process of moving from specific observations to general concepts, as advocated by Francis Bacon.

Deductive reasoning

The transition from general principles to specific instances, contrasting with inductive reasoning.

Empiricism

The theory that knowledge is achieved through observation and experimentation.

Scientific method

A systematic approach to inquiry that involves observing natural phenomena, formulating hypotheses, and conducting experiments.

Printing press

An invention that helped spread new ideas quickly, significantly contributing to the progress of the Scientific Revolution.

Francis Bacon

An English philosopher who advocated for the scientific method and empiricism, emphasizing the importance of observation.

Renaissance humanists

Scholars who mastered Greek and Latin, gaining access to works by ancient thinkers that challenged medieval scientific authorities.

Mathematics

A key discipline in the Scientific Revolution, seen as essential for navigation, military science, and geography.