Edward Grant Boeken

The book challenges the common belief that Christianity opposed science during the Middle Ages, highlighting how medieval theologians actually embraced natural philosophy. It argues that their support was crucial for the development of science, laying the groundwork for the Scientific Revolution. Readers will discover how the scientific culture we have today is deeply rooted in the intellectual contributions of religious thinkers from this era, reshaping the narrative of science and religion's historical relationship.

This concise introduction to the history of physical science in the Middle Ages begins with a description of the feeble state of early medieval science and its revitalization during the twelfth and thirteenth centuries, as evidenced by the explosion of knowledge represented by extensive translations of Greek and Arabic treatises. The content and concepts that came to govern science from the late twelfth century onwards were powerfully shaped and dominated by the science and philosophy of Aristotle. It is, therefore, by focussing attention on problems and controversies associated with Aristotelian science that the reader is introduced to the significant scientific developments and interpretations formulated in the later Middle Ages. The concluding chapter presents a new interpretation of the medieval failure to abandon the physics and cosmology of Aristotle and explains why, despite serious criticisms, they were not generally repudiated during this period. As detailed critical bibliography completes the work.

The Scientific Revolution associated with the names of Galileo and Isaac Newton began in the seventeenth century, but the foundations for that revolution were laid in the late Middle Ages. This 1997 book views the substantive achievements of this period for early modern science within a broad societal and institutional setting that includes Latin translations, Christianity, and the universities.

Exploring the transition from the late Middle Ages to the Age of Reason, this book delves into the intellectual shifts that laid the groundwork for modern thought. It highlights key figures and ideas that emerged during this transformative period, illustrating how early rationalism and humanism challenged traditional beliefs and set the stage for the Enlightenment. The narrative emphasizes the interconnectedness of historical developments and their lasting impact on contemporary philosophy and science.

Exploring the concept of void space, this work delves into the major ideas developed from the fourteenth to the early eighteenth centuries. It examines how thinkers of the time perceived emptiness both within the universe and in the broader cosmological context, highlighting the evolution of philosophical and scientific thought regarding space and its implications.

Despite some tensions in the thirteenth century, the Church and its theologians became favorably disposed toward science and natural philosophy and used them extensively in their theological deliberations.

Natural philosophy explored the physical causes of natural phenomena, distinct from the exact mathematical sciences. The integration of these fields began in the late Middle Ages, culminating in the 17th century, which paved the way for the Scientific Revolution. Newton's work exemplified this union, leading to the emergence of independent sciences by the 19th century.

Exploring the nature of suffering, the book delves into its unavoidable role in the human experience, emphasizing that imperfection is central to our humanity. Through the story of Job, it illustrates that even the most virtuous individuals endure significant suffering. However, it presents a hopeful perspective: those anchored in faith can transform their suffering into blessings, ultimately thriving despite adversity. The narrative highlights how divine support empowers good people to navigate and transcend their hardships, offering a path to resilience and spiritual growth.