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Chapter Nineteen
Term | Definition |
---|---|
Geocentric Theory | the theory that earth is the center of the universe, and the sun, moon, and planets revolve around earth |
Scientific Revolution | the posing and testing of theories about the natural world that began in the mid-1500s in Europe |
Scientific Method | a five-step process used to investigate scientific hypothesis |
Rene Descartes | French scholar who used reason- logic and math- to prove the basic truths |
Nicolaus Copernicus | Polish astronomer who recognized the inaccuracy of the geocentric theory; his complete model of the solar system supported the heliocentric theory |
Heliocentric Theory | the theory that the sun is near the center of the universe and the earth rotates around the sun |
Galileo Galilei | Italian astronomer who built the first telescope and published a book that supported Galileo's heliocentric theory, and stood trial for heresy |
Isaac Newton | English scientist, developed the universal laws of gravity and motion |
Enlightenment | the time during which philosophers emphasized the use of reason to understand truth, also known as the Age of Reason |
Salons | social gatherings at which writers, artists, and thinkers discussed their ideas |
Social Contract | the arrangement between individuals and their government: people give up some of their personal freedoms in exchange for order, peace, and safety |
John Locke | political philosopher whose ideas about government later influenced the writers of the Constitution |
Jean-Jacques Rousseau | thinker who believed people were naturally good but that society corrupts |
Baron de Montesquieu | writer who argued in favor of separation of power and checks and balances in government |
Philosophes | French term for the philosophers of the Enlightenment |
Voltaire | Witty French writer who supported justice, liberty, and religious tolerance |
Enlightened Despots | rulers inspired by Enlightenment ideas to make social reforms |