UW 1020 Chapter Notes - Chapter 3: Nicolaus Copernicus, Michel De Montaigne, Philip Melanchthon
14 Sep 2016
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Document Summary
The atomist theory of infinite worlds explained a theory of matter and a spectrum of human knowledge. This idea of infinite worlds was a problem for christian thinkers: clear solution included the idea that the infinite worlds were all created by god to show his omnipotence. French essayist michel de montaigne praised and supported lucretius" style and also agreed with the idea of a plurality of worlds: however, he was not an atomist, but he was just simply interested in the idea. The debate of the infinite number of worlds merged with the controversy surrounding the plurality of worlds. The atomist idea of multiple worlds had to be resolved two sides of the debate: atomist principles vs. principle of plentitude and god"s power. The factors between 1500 and 1750 to change the opinions about extraterrestrial life included figures such as copernicus, kepler, and galileo: also the change in religious and philosophical mentality. Only 10 astronomers believed him during 16th century.
