1 How did Greek scientists change the way people viewed and understood the natural world around them? How did common Greeks explain natural events prior to scientific explanations?
(4 points)
Greek scientists, particularly those of the Classical period, made significant contributions to fields such as mathematics, physics, astronomy, biology, and medicine. They introduced new methods of observation, experimentation, and logical reasoning, which greatly influenced the way people viewed and understood the natural world.
Prior to scientific explanations, common Greeks often explained natural events in terms of mythology and religion. They associated the occurrences of natural phenomena with the actions of gods and goddesses. For example, thunder and lightning were explained as the anger of Zeus, while earthquakes were seen as the result of Poseidon's wrath. These explanations were based on myths and legends, which often attributed supernatural powers and motives to natural events.
However, Greek scientists with their empirical approaches challenged these mythological explanations. They sought naturalistic explanations based on observation, analysis, and logical reasoning. For example, Thales of Miletus, considered to be the first Greek philosopher and scientist, explained earthquakes as a result of natural causes such as the movement of underground water. His explanation deviated from the traditional religious explanations, marking a shift towards scientific understanding.
Over time, Greek scientists such as Aristotle, Euclid, Archimedes, Hippocrates, and Ptolemy made further advancements in their respective fields. Aristotle, for instance, laid the foundations of biology by studying and categorizing various forms of life. Euclid established the principles of mathematics and geometry. Archimedes formulated the principles of physics and engineering. Hippocrates developed the field of medicine based on observation and rationality. Ptolemy made groundbreaking contributions to astronomy.
Through their discoveries and theories, Greek scientists revolutionized the way people perceived the natural world. They emphasized the importance of reason, observation, and logic in understanding natural phenomena, undermining the role of mythology and religion. Their scientific explanations provided a more accurate and reliable framework for understanding the natural world, leading to a significant shift in people's comprehension of the universe.