Nicolaus Copernicus
Renaissance astronomer who proposed the heliocentric theory, planets revolve around the sun. His ideas challenged the geocentric model supported by the church- marked the beginning of the scientific revolution.
Tycho Brahe
Astronomer who made accurate observations of stars and planets. Developed a detailed geocentric-heliocentric model that attempted to reconcile Copernicus’ theories with traditional views, laid the groundwork for Kepler’s later discoveries.
Johannes Kepler
German astronmer- discovered that planets move in elliptical orbits around the sun. 3 laws of planetary motion provided support for the heliocentric theory.
Galileo Galilei
Italian scientist- used the telescope to make observations in which supported the heliocentric theory. Advocacy for scientific inquiry and conflict with the Church led to trial of galileo in which he was tried by the Roman inquisition for supporting heliocentrism(later declared heresy) and spent the rest of his life under house arrest.
Isaac Newton
English scientist who unified the work of earlier astronomers and formed the laws of motion/universal gravitation. His book Principia Mathematica became the foundation of Modern physics.
Galen
Greek physician- his ideas about anatomy and medicine were largely based on animal dissection and dominated Europe for over a thousand years. During the scirev his teachings were challenged by new discoveries that emphasized human dissection.
Paracelsus
swiss physician and alchemist who rejected Galen’s theories and emphasized the use of chemical minerals to treat diseases.
Vesalius
Flemish anatomist- revolutionized the study of human anatomy through detailed dissections and precise illustrations. His book On the Structure of Human Body corrected many of Galen’s errors and marked a shift toward empirical observation in medicine
William Harvey
English physician who discovered and described circulation of blood, showing how the heart pumps throughout the body. His work challenged Galenic ideas and laid the foundation for modern physiology.
Anton Van Leewenhoek
Dutch scientist who developed powerful microscopes and the first to observe microorganisms(protozoa, bacteria). Father of microscopy.
Francis Bacon
English philosopher- promoted empirical method, emphasizing observation and experimentation as the basis of knowledge, framework for modern scientific method.
Rene Descartes
French philosopher/mathematician who emphasized rational thought “I think, therefore I am.”
The Royal Society
scientific institution dedicated to promoting experimentation, observations, and the sharing of knowledge. Became a central hub for scientists to collaborate and advance the scientific revolution.
