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Module 10 – History of Science: European Middle Ages, the Renaissance, and the Scientific Revolution

Introduction

In this fifth module of the second section of the course, we complete the overview of the history of science by focusing on the European Middle Ages, the Renaissance, and the Scientific Revolution. You will explain how the Christian world view influenced the emergence of modern science. Remember, we are studying the history to gain perspective when communicating the theology of science to peers. We are spanning vast amounts of history, looking for details to tell the story. Fr. Jaki reviews the Scholastic authors in Science and Creation: From Eternal Cycles to an Oscillating Universe.

Module Objectives

Student will be able to:

  • Explain how the Christian world view influenced the emergence of modern science.
  • Describe the contributions of five scholars to the development of modern science.
  • Compose a brief essay.

Assignments

Feedback
  • Review any comments from the professor.
Lecture

Readings
  • Jaki, Science and Creation, Chapters 10-12, “The Sighting of New Horizons,” “The Interlude of ‘Re-naissance’,” and “The Creator’s Handiwork.”
Essay

Compose a brief critical thinking (500-word minimum) essay to respond to these prompts:

  • How did the Christian world view influence the emergence of modern science? 30 points
  • List and describe the contributions of five scholars to the development of modern science (one paragraph each). 50 points
  • Content (see rubric) 10 points
  • Expression (see rubric) 10 points