Understanding of the universe: Ptolemy and Copernicus Flashcards
Who was Ptolemy?
A first century Astronomer and mathematician.
What did Ptolemy believe about the universe?
He believed the earth was at the centre of the universe - geocentric.
What methodological approach did Ptolemy take?
He was providing mathematical models without observed evidence.
Example of Platonic theory.
Who was Copernicus?
A 15th century Polish polymath.
What did he disagree with Ptolemy about?
He thought Ptolemy’s system was unworkable and proposed that the sun was at the centre of the universe.
Further, Ptolemy was unable to explain all astronomical movements nor could it accurately set a date for easter each year.
What was Copernicus’ book that essentially sparked the scientific revolution?
“On the Revolutions of the Heavenly Spheres” - 1543.
Why did Copernicus’ publication not have the revolutionary impact intended?
He had to show it as Platonic theory rather than Aristotelian fact so not to annoy the church.
However, it still got banned in 1616 until 1758.
On what did Copernicus agree with Ptolemy and Aristotle?
Heavenly bodies moved in perfect circles.
However, he said that there are 8 spheres with an unmoving sun at the centre. Also, he claimed the Earth rotated on its own axis.
Why were Copernicus’ conclusions limited?
Like Ptolemy, they were theoretical, not empirical conclusions.
On the subject of orbits, why was Copernicus move conservative?
He believed planets and stars still moved on spheres and believed that all planetary movements must be perfectly circular - he did not change Ptolemy’s underlying approach.
Why did many not take Copernicus’ work seriously?
Many saw it as a theory - only 10 thinkers before 1600 believed them.
Further, it contradicted the Biblical account that the Earth was still - it seemed counter-intuitive to think otherwise.
