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

Flashcards covering major concepts and figures related to the Scientific Revolution and their impact on modern science.

What significant shift in worldview did Copernicus, Kepler, Galileo, and Newton contribute to during the Scientific Revolution?

They shifted the perspective from a geocentric (earth-centered) universe to a heliocentric (sun-centered) universe.

What was the role of Francis Bacon and Rene Descartes in the development of scientific inquiry?

They promoted the use of deductive and inductive reasoning and experimentation, leading to the formation of the scientific method.

What did Galileo Galilei contribute to the Scientific Revolution?

Galileo made significant astronomical observations using the telescope, including the moons of Jupiter and the phases of Venus, challenging the Ptolemaic system.

How did the Scientific Revolution challenge medieval beliefs about the universe and human existence?

It questioned traditional religious and philosophical views, leading to a more secular, rational perspective on existence.

What was Copernicus's major work that outlined his heliocentric theory?

On the Revolutions of the Heavenly Spheres.

What was one of the significant impacts of the printing press during the Scientific Revolution?

It facilitated the rapid dissemination of new scientific ideas and discoveries across Europe.

What is the significance of Isaac Newton's 'Principia' published in 1687?

It presented the law of universal gravitation and provided a coherent framework that unified the laws of motion, cementing the foundation of modern physics.

In what ways did Andreas Vesalius contribute to the field of medicine?

Vesalius published 'On the Fabric of the Human Body,' emphasizing practical research and correcting many of Galen's anatomical errors.

What was the traditional view about the human body prior to the Scientific Revolution?

It was dominated by Galen's teachings and the theory of four humors.

What philosophical stance did Descartes establish regarding the mind and body?

He proposed Cartesian dualism, asserting that mind and matter are fundamentally different.

How did the Scientific Revolution affect the authority of the church?

It led to a questioning of ecclesiastical authority and traditional interpretations of scripture, particularly regarding the natural world.

Who were some key female figures involved in the Scientific Revolution, and what were their contributions?

Margaret Cavendish participated in scientific debates and Maria Merian made significant contributions to entomology through her detailed illustrations.

What was one of the main arguments made by Pascal in his 'Pensées'?

He emphasized the need to balance reason and faith, asserting that religion must appeal to both emotions and intellect.

What key concept did Newton's theories contribute to the understanding of the universe?

The idea that the universe operates as a machine, governed by natural laws that can be understood and described mathematically.

What was the impact of the Enlightenment on the scientific methods developed during the Scientific Revolution?

The Enlightenment built upon the scientific methods to further advocate for reason, empiricism, and secular outlooks in all aspects of life.