Topic > Famous Pioneers of the Enlightenment - 1137

The discoveries that emerged from the scientific revolution had a profound impact on the period of the Enlightenment. The Enlightenment movement would not have been possible if it were not for the courageous men who dared to go against established ways of thinking. These men took risks and put themselves at the mercy of public scrutiny. They not only asked questions about how our world works, but they also devised new scientific methods that uncovered new truths about our very existence. Instead of relying on religious dogmas and mystical practices, common during the 16th and 17th centuries to answer questions, they developed their own hypotheses. They built on the foundations of knowledge established by great thinkers such as Plato, Aristotle, and other great classical thinkers. The scientific revolution produced thinkers who sought to prove or disprove those old theories by relying on their new scientific methods. They asked challenging questions, questions that were often controversial, and they refused to accept the Scriptures as the only source of truth. They tested their new theories by conducting methodical experiments using highly complex mathematical formulas, new instruments, and measurements. Their primary aim was to define and explain the world they lived in using methodical and calculated experiments. They believed this would help uncover the truth. This very principle also put them in direct conflict with the ecclesiastical authorities. The church was losing power and was no longer the center of attention. These new thinkers challenged the authority of the church and threatened the church's role in society. These ideas towards the discovery of truth continued to spread in the Enlightenment movement....... middle of paper ...... how everyone could be an art critic. People were free to form their own opinions. Jacques realized this and instead focused on depicting emotions and patriotism in his art. In conclusion, the efforts of scientists during the Scientific Revolution helped pave the way for the Enlightenment movement by giving man a sense of trust and faith in reason. Philisophes and others from different fields were able to apply these new scientific methods to solve problems of social behavior. Religious dogma and absolute monarchy were seen as obstacles to freedom of thought and expression. As a result, religious tolerance flourished and new social, economic and educational reforms were implemented. There was a massive production of literature in all fields, and places such as cafes and salons were set up to facilitate discussion.