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? bot
Greek scientists made major contributions to various fields like mathematics, physics, astronomy, and biology, which significantly changed the way people viewed and understood the natural world. They introduced systematic observation and empirical evidence as the basis for understanding the natural phenomena, shifting the focus from purely philosophical or mythical explanations.
Before scientific explanations, common Greeks often explained natural events through mythological or religious perspectives. They attributed natural phenomena and events to the actions and will of deities or mythical creatures. For example, lightning was explained as Zeus, the sky god, throwing a thunderbolt, earthquakes were seen as the result of Poseidon's anger, and diseases were often attributed to the wrath of various gods or curses.
However, Greek scientists challenged these mythological explanations by studying the natural world using observation, experimentation, and logical reasoning. They sought to explain natural events based on natural causes, rather than divine intervention. For instance, Thales of Miletus, considered one of the first Greek scientists, proposed that earthquakes originated from the movement of the Earth's crust, rather than being acts of furious gods. This marked a shift towards a more rational and scientific understanding of natural phenomena.
Greek scientists like Democritus, Pythagoras, Aristotle, and Archimedes further expanded knowledge in fields such as mathematics, physics, and biology, providing evidence-based explanations for various natural processes. Their contributions helped to develop a more scientific understanding of the natural world, providing a foundation for future scientific advancements and shaping the way people approached and explained natural events.