Scientific Revolution and Enlightenment Thinkers (m)

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What was the Scientific Revolution?

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A period from the mid 1500s to early 1700s where knowledge was acquired through careful observations, controlled experiments, the formulation of general laws, and mathematical expressions.

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What did the Scientific Revolution challenge?

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It challenged reliance on the authority of the Church, the speculations of ancient philosophers, and the received wisdom of cultural tradition.

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Who was Nicolaus Copernicus?

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A Polish astronomer who said the sun, not the Earth, was the center of the universe, challenging the theory of geocentrism.

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What did Galileo Galilei contribute to science?

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He was an Italian mathematician who improved the telescope, observed sunspots, mountains on the moon, and Jupiter’s moons.

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Who was Sir Isaac Newton and what were his contributions?

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A British scientist who developed the theory of gravity, formulated modern laws of motion and mechanics, and developed calculus.

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What is calculus?

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A system of math that calculates changing forces or quantities.

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Who was Francis Bacon?

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An English philosopher who believed truth is found through investigation and evidence, and helped develop the scientific method.

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What did Rene Descartes believe?

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A French philosopher and mathematician who believed truth is gained through mathematics and logical deduction (reason).

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Who was Robert Boyle?

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An Irish chemist who established chemistry as a pure science, proved air was not a basic element, and defined what an element is.

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What did Voltaire promote?

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He was a poet, historian, and philosopher who mocked the church and the royal court, and promoted religious freedom and freedom of the press.