Science has made many leaps forward throughout the centuries, bringing the world advancements it has never imagined. People may argue the negatives and positives of science these days and centuries ago it was no different. During the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, the works and findings of scientists were greatly influenced by the approval of political figures due to their desire for power and monetary gain, the support and understanding received by influential religious personages and the downfalls of society regarding disorganization of research and a preset view of gender roles.
The general opinion about scientific findings was positive among major political figures because it opened the door for an opportunity to gain both power and money. With this mindset capturing many Europeans, some strived to increase institutions in which these discoveries could be made. For example, French finance minister, Jean Baptiste Colbert, heavily encouraged the opening and establishment of academies to conduct scientific research. Due to his service under King Louis XIV, Louis XIV is known to have supported these academies as well. He knew that power and wealth could come from the research and therefore, heavily supported the academies.
On the contrary, scientific discoveries were occasionally seen as a negative act if the findings posed a threat or affected the interests of people or absolutist rulers. Thomas Hobbes, an English philosopher, says that no one seems to hold an interest in the sciences unless it affects them or their ranking in society. In addition, the French monk and philosopher, Marin Mersenne, writes in a letter to his patron that if he wishes against any material he has discovered, then he will immediately delete it from his published work. He doesn’t want to offend his patron, so he is willing to eliminate material in order to keep the monetary support and maintain the credibility of a scientist. Overall, the efforts and discoveries made by scientists were welcomed by powerful political figures with open arms.
Although there was considerable discontent within most of the Catholic clergy, scientific research was gladly accepted by a few influential individuals. For instance, the French protestant theologian, John Calvin, said that, “[science] should not be prohibited nor this science condemned, it cannot be denied that this art unfolds the admirable wisdom of God.” Not only does he wish for scientific studies, but he believes it could help solve some of the mysteries surrounding the existence and presence of God. These words are spoken by a famous religious leader, affecting not only the act of scientific research, but also those who are doubtful by the discoveries. He could change the way people saw things because he held such high credibility that most people did not have. In addition, an Italian Monk named Giovanni Ciampoli writes a letter to Galileo saying that he believes in his finding and thinks they’re great, but that he needs to be a little more careful about the various ways in which it can be interpreted in relation to God. As an outside reader of Galileo’s work, he can see and hear firsthand the criticism revolving around his discoveries. From his observations of others, he can advise Galileo in a separate form from any colleague who would have reviewed his work.
On a slightly different note, some scientists and philosophers believed that religious affiliations could improve their standing and increase the influence and credibility of their research. The astronomer and polish priest, Nicolaus Copernicus, wrote a letter to Pope Paul III asking for assistance in regards to supporting his latest findings. In the letter he says, “You, by your influence and judgment can readily hold the slanders from biting.” With this, Copernicus is hoping that Pope Paul III will see what he has done and agree by defending his ideas from critical comments. Because of his influence over most of the Catholic faith, he can prevent Copernicus’ discoveries from being initially ripped apart. In addition, the German philosopher, Gottfried Leibniz wrote that God is present in science and that research could help us reach the goal of figuring out God’s ways. Leibniz believes that God exists and that he is responsible for our being, but he also believes that we must work to find him within miracles and determine what role he plays in the world. All in all, religion and religious affiliations are important to most scientists of the time, influencing their actions and spreading science to many places.
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