Nicolaus Copernicus And The Scientific Revolution

538 Words3 Pages

There were many breakthroughs in Europe after 1500, but one of the most influential was the Scientific Revolution. This revolution were unique, for it paved the way for modern science and intellectual thought through advances in physics, re-conception of the universe, and mathematics. It was clear that, with such advances, the world was slowing becoming more depend on reasoning, rather than “traditional cultural authorities”, and this contributed to Europe's growth towards becoming a world powerhouse after initially founding the capitalist system in the 1700s (512). Following the early stages of capitalist economic practices, an astronomer, by the name of Nicolaus Copernicus, presented a theory that argued that the universe is heliocentric (514). This theory was groundbreaking because it not only challenged old scientific thought, but it also challenged the Church's belief that the earth is at the center because it was …show more content…

Copernicus's theory inspired other astronomers and scientists in searching of answers to the questions that was previously left untouched. This quest for knowledge created a domino effect in which increased Europe's understanding of the natural world (514). Increasing scientific knowledge is crucial because knowledge leads to power. Knowledge is the foundation to achieving greatness; science as one the foundations for Europe becoming a powerhouse in the future is no exception. For example, in the far future, the 20th century, Europe's innovation in science enabled them to achieve power through successfully launching the first satellite, the Sputnik, in space. As we know, satellites are an important tool for formulating military strategies. The technological advances scientists made regarding space today can be greatly contributed to the scientific revolution in the