Professor Brophy
History
102
Third Discussion Section: The Scientific Revolution
1. What was the ancient and medieval world-view of the earth and heavens, and
why would findings of the Scientific Revolution be termed
"revolutionary"? Come to class with an explanation of why the
Scientific Revolution might genuinely be termed a revolution.
2. Assess the importance of Copernicus’ dedication to Pope Paul
III. How does Copernicus characterize the relationship of natural
philosophy (astronomy and physics) to the bible and Christianity?
3. What is the central argument to Galileo’s The Starry
Messenger and with what kind of evidence does Galileo seek to persuade the
reader? Why was established authority threatened by the
message?
4. What is Bacon’s critique of ancient authority? Why is he
suspicious of received knowledge? What is so critical about his insistence on
experiment and method?
5. Why have scholars characterized