Understanding the Universe: From Aristotelian Cosmology to the Mechanical Model
The Philosophy of Nature: Exploring Our Understanding of the Universe
Admiring Nature: Teleological vs. Mechanistic Views
The teleological answer suggests that the natural order arises from a predetermined plan, often attributed to a supernatural creator. Conversely, the mechanistic answer views nature as a complex machine, where changes result from the interaction of its components without any inherent purpose.
Interpreting the History of Science: Paradigms and Revolutions
A scientific paradigm provides a framework for scientific research, encompassing a general understanding of reality, relevant laws and theories, identified problems, and research tools. Normal science occurs when a paradigm is widely accepted within a scientific community. However, anomalies can arise, leading to the proposal of new paradigms and a period of scientific revolution, ultimately resulting in a new period of normal science with the prevailing paradigm.
Aristotelian Cosmology: A Rational Explanation of the Universe
Aristotle’s model of the Universe was characterized by several key features:
- Finite: He believed that an infinite cosmos would be incomplete.
- Eternal: The cosmos could not have a beginning, as it would imply origination from nothing.
- Filled with matter: The void, representing absolute non-being, was inconceivable.
- Geocentric and geostatic: The Earth was considered motionless at the center of the cosmos.
- In motion: The cosmos had a dynamic order, with all changes requiring a cause.
- Divided into two spheres: The sublunary sphere encompassed the Earth and its surroundings, while the supralunary sphere extended from the Moon to the fixed stars.
Ptolemy, in the 2nd century BC, refined Aristotle’s model with precise calculations of celestial bodies’ positions and speeds. His geocentric model, with eccentric orbits, became the most significant astronomical work of ancient history.
The Mechanical Universe: A Shift in Perspective
In the 16th century, Nicolaus Copernicus challenged the geocentric model with his heliocentric model, placing the Sun at the center of the Universe. This shift in perspective had profound implications for humanity’s understanding of its place in the cosmos.
Galileo Galilei provided crucial evidence supporting Copernican astronomy, advocating for:
- Focusing research on verifiable sensory experiences.
- Analyzing properties mathematically.
- Improving scientific instruments.
- Exposing the flaws of the geocentric model.
Johannes Kepler challenged the Aristotelian notion of perfect circular orbits, proposing elliptical orbits for planets.
Isaac Newton’s theory of physics, including the law of universal gravitation, unified the findings of Copernicus, Kepler, and Galileo, establishing the concept of a single, interconnected Universe.