Global Studies- The Scientific Revolution

Nicolaus Copernicus

Reasoned that the stars, the earth, and the other planets revolved around the sun = heliocentric, or sun-centered theory of the universe.

Tycho Brahe

He built an astronomical observatory and carefully recorded the movements of the planets for many years and took incredibly accurate data. His findings supported Copernicus's Heliocentric Theory.

Johannes Kepler

Concluded that certain mathematical laws govern planetary motion. One of the laws proved that planets must revolve around the sun in elliptical orbits (elongated ovals) instead of perfect circles.

Galileo Galilei

Built a powerful telescope to view the heavens. Published Starry Messenger, in which Galileo announced that Jupiter had four moons and that the sun had dark spots. He also noted that the earth's moon had a rough, uneven surface. Was put under house arrest by the Catholic Church for agreeing with Copernicus and putting forth "heretical" views that went against the teachings of the Church.

Sir Francis Bacon

Helped to develop a new approach to science called the scientific method, which is a logical procedure for gathering and testing ideas. Instead of reasoning from abstract theories, Bacon urged scientists to experiment and then draw conclusions. This approach is called empiricism, or the experimental method.

Sir Isaac Newton

Developed the law of universal gravitation and the three laws of motion. Invented calculus.

Renee Descartes

"I think therefore I am." He encouraged scientific questioning and a quest for knowledge and experimentation.

Robert Boyle

Began the study of modern chemistry. He discovered elements and chemical compounds and explained how temperature can affect gases.

William Harvey

Studied the circulation of blood and the heart- circulatory system.

The Scientific Revolution

Thinkers like Copernicus, Galileo, and Newton challenged the long-accepted geocentric model and church teachings. This led to the development of astronomy, physics, and natural laws