(Author)
Philosophy
The Renaissance period found a good deal of interest in the physical world (Weckowicz 53). In 1510, Leonardo da Vinci developed several theories on the nature of the universe. In 1528, Jean Fernal, the French physician, calculated the size of the Earth. Nicolas Copernicus, a highly qualified Pole, observed motions of heavenly bodies, though he was not a practical astronomer. He found that heliocentric theory was more practical; Earth is actually rotating in an orbit around the sun. He retained many concepts of older theories such as spherical and finite universe, and perfectly circular shape of heavenly bodies. His heliocentric theory was published in De Revolutionibus Orbium Coelestium (“On the Revolutions of Celestial Bodies”) in 1543. Tycho Brahe, a Dane, was also a great practical astronomer, who worked on several theories from 1576-1597 in the lab given by the King of Denmark. Mathematically, his model of the solar system was similar to that of Copernicus. In 1584, Giordano Bruno, an Italian monk, argued that everything is in motion in the universe. He also argued that distant stars are centers of distant solar systems, and our planetary system was not located in the center of the universe. However, he was punished, as his conclusions were incompatible with the teachings of the Church.
One of the first modern philosophers was Rene Descartes. His publication, Discourse on Method (1637), touched scientific methods. This publication noted the use of deductive reasoning to test hypothesis. He stated "I think, therefore I am," (“cogito, ergo sum”), and showed that the evidence of thought proves the hypothesis of existence. He worked significantly on cosmology, features of matter, and human anatomy. He also wrote about spiritual nature and the soul. The Cartesian philosophy, after his name, had many followers during the 17th century. Another highly influential philosopher was Francis Bacon. He warned scientists against four false notions; Idols, that were of less impact to the world. However, he advocated more logical scientific community that must be less affected by authority and mysticism. His popular work, Novum Organum (1620), noted the organization of sciences and scientific community.
Advancement in mathematics helped a lot in the advancements in physics and astronomy during the period of Scientific Revolution. This allowed the work on abstract theories and more logical rectification of the Aristotelian system. Francois Viete, a French lawyer, started using letters for unknown quantities during the late 16th century. In 1591, he laid the foundation for work on trigonometry by applying algebraic method to geometry. The Fleming Simon Stevin, in the same time, applied geometry to the physics of inclined planes and the hydrostatic surface tension of water. He also introduced the decimal system of fractions that significantly helped in calculations. Invention of logarithms in 1594 by John Napier of Scotland is considered as the most significant advancement in mathematics. In 1614, he published Description of the Marvelous Canon of Logarithms, in which he noted his extensive work on logarithms. He also published Geometry in 1637 in which he described the relation of motion, surrounding references, and geometry. Johannes Kepler also worked a lot on geometry. John Wallis, Oxford professor, published Arithmetica Infinitum in 1655 that helped in the invention and development of calculus. He was one of the major influences of Newton. He invented the symbol for infinity, and was the first to apply mathematics to the operation of tides. Many mathematicians also worked on optics that helped in the development of better optical instruments such as the telescope. Galileo took help from these works.
Works Cited
Weckowicz, T.E., and H. Liebel-Weckowicz. A History of Great Ideas in Abnormal Psychology. Elsevier Science, 1990. Print.
