Turning Point - Scientific Revolution
Scientific Revolution
The Scientific Revolution changed the way people thought about the physical world around them. The same spirit of inquiry that fueled the Renaissance, led scientists to question traditional beliefs about the workings of the universe. The most prominent scientists of this time include, Copernicus, Galileo, and Isaac Newton.
The Scientific Method

The basis for the Scientific Revolution was the Scientific Method. The scientific method uses observation and experimentation to explain theories on the workings of the universe. This process removed blind adherence to tradition from science, and allowed scientists to logically find answers through the use of reason. This method of research is the basis for modern science.
Scientists

Bacon
Francis Bacon believed that science was a way to improve the human condition and encouraged the development of new technology to aid in this objective. He stressed the use of the scientific method to accomplish these goals.
Copernicus
Nicolaus Copernicus developed the heliocentric model of the universe. This states that the sun is the center, and that the earth revolves around it. Despite his caculations, many scholars disagree with his theories and continue to believe in the geocentric model proposed by the ancient Greek Ptolemy 1500 years earlier.
Galileo
Galileo continues Copernicus' work by observing the skies with a homemade telescope. Although he was able to prove Copernicus correct, his work was rejected by the Church and he was forced to recant (take back) or face execution. He was put on trial called, an inquisition, and convicted of heresy. He was put under house arrest for the rest of his life. In 1992, Pope John Paul II, finally admitted that the Roman Catholic got it wrong and Galileo was correct that the Sun was the center of the solar system/universe.
Newton
Isaac Newton built upon the earlier work of Copernicus and Galileo and used mathematics to describe gravity as the force that keeps planets revolving around the sun. He also explained that this same force is what causes objects to fall to earth.
Effects
The Scientific Revolution had far reaching effects. Besides changing the way people thought about the universe, the use of the Scientific Method resulted in discoveries in medicine, physics, and biology.
