Galileo’s Scientific Revolution: Empirical Observations, Heliocentricity, and Independent Inquiry

In what fundamental way did the work of Galileo differ from his predecessors who had thought about the sky?Galileo used instruments and experiments to show him what nature was doing, instead of relying on pure logicGalileo relied on the revelations of the Bible to tell him what was happening in the skyGalileo translated the works of the ancient Greek astronomers, and relied on their wonderful abilities to think through difficult problemsGalileo consulted many authorities before coming to scientific conclusions, instead of working on his ownGalileo believed that the Earth was the center of the solar system, and everything revolved around it

Galileo used instruments and experiments to show him what nature was doing, instead of relying on pure logic

The fundamental way in which Galileo’s work differed from his predecessors who had thought about the sky was that he used instruments and experiments to show him what nature was doing, instead of relying on pure logic. While his predecessors, such as Aristotle and Ptolemy, relied on abstract reasoning to understand the workings of the universe, Galileo used empirical observations to support his theories.

Additionally, Galileo challenged the prevalent belief that the Earth was the center of the universe, and everything revolved around it. He supported the heliocentric model proposed by Copernicus, which positioned the Sun at the center of the solar system and the planets orbiting around it. This was a major departure from the geocentric model that had been accepted for centuries.

Furthermore, Galileo’s work was characterized by his independence and willingness to question the prevailing views of his time. He consulted some authorities, but he also conducted his own experiments and drew his own conclusions based on his observations.

In summary, Galileo’s work differed from his predecessors primarily in his use of instruments and experiments to support his theories, his support for the heliocentric model, and his independent and questioning approach to scientific inquiry.

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