1. Stars of the Scientific Revolution
Investigating the Characters who Changed Science…and the World???

2. What is the Scientific Revolution?
“A new way of thinking about the natural world based upon careful observation and a willingness to ask questions”
Geocentric Theory vs. Heliocentric Theory
Geocentric Theory:
Proposed by the Classical Greek Philosopher (and
early Scientist!), Aristotle
Taught that the Earth is the center of the universe
When the Catholic Church formed, it accepted and
taught this theory, believing that God placed His
people at the center of the universe

3. A New Worldview Heliocentric Theory: Developed by Nicolaus Copernicus
Teaches that the Sun is the center
of the Universe
Consequently, the Earth revolves around the sun
Knowing his ideas clashed with the teachings of the
Roman Catholic Church, Copernicus waited until he
was near death before publishing his controversial theory
Click Here to view a short introduction to Copernicus
Think About It: If you were Copernicus, would you have
waited to publish your new theory? Why or why not?

4. Challenging Accepted Beliefs
Inspired by Copernicus’ book, "On the Revolutions of the Heavenly Spheres", future astronomers sought to prove his theory true; laying the foundation for the modern practice of Scientific Investigation
Johannes Kepler: Used math to prove Copernicus’ theory to be true
Galileo Galilei: Supported the Heliocentric Theory by creating the telescope – this provides undeniable proof that the Earth, in fact, revolved around the sun

5. The Development of the Scientific Method
The rapidly increasing interest in the Study of Science demanded a uniform method of investigation (Also Known As: Inquiry)
René Descartes: French philosopher
Emphasized logic; must doubt until reason proves true
“I think; therefore, I am”
Sir Francis Bacon: English Philosopher
Inspired by Descartes’ thinking, Bacon creates and encourages the use of the Scientific Method

6. The Revolution Continues…
Scientific Method: Logical procedure for gathering and testing ideas
Its use standardizes the Study of Science and expands scientific research
Sir Isaac Newton: Discovered the Law of Gravity; and, as a result, the study of Physics
Invention of microscope expanded the study of Biology
New tools for understanding weather lead to the study of Meteorology
Doctors use human cadavers to map human anatomy; taking the study of Medicine to a new level