Introduction to Galileo and the Scientific Method

These flashcards cover key concepts related to Galileo, the Copernican model, the scientific method, and other relevant historical figures and ideas discussed in the lecture.

Copernican Theory

The astronomical model that positions the Sun at the center of the universe, contrary to the geocentric model which places the Earth in the center.

Inquisition

A Church-sponsored investigation that sought to root out heretical beliefs and practices, often involving trials and punishments for those accused.

Recant

To withdraw or retract a statement or belief formally, often under pressure.

Observation

The action or process of closely monitoring phenomena to gather information and draw conclusions.

Inferential Statistics

A branch of statistics that draws conclusions from data that are subject to random variation, often used to infer patterns based on sampled data.

Scientific Method

A systematic process for experimentation that is used to explore observations and answer questions, typically involving steps like asking a question, forming a hypothesis, conducting experiments, and drawing conclusions.

Technocratic Elite

A governing or ruling class composed of experts and skilled individuals rather than those chosen based on social class or ideological beliefs.

Probability

A branch of mathematics concerned with the analysis of random phenomena; the measure of likelihood that an event will occur.

Barometric Pressure

The pressure exerted by the atmosphere at a given point; often used as a measure for predicting weather changes.

Infant Mortality Rate

A measure used to indicate the number of infants that die before their first birthday per 1,000 live births in a given year.