Paper Summary:

This paper examines how, in his letter to the Grand Duchess Christina, Galileo argues that explanations of physical phenomena are not matters of faith. It discusses how he consistently attacks his opponents and counters their arguments on the basis of two flaws, while defending his own work and the place of science in society. By constantly emphasizing the significance of the Bible and his own devout nature, the papers attempts to show how Galileo's clear arguments succeed in proving how the domains of religion and science can be balanced without demeaning one or the other.

From the Paper:

"Galileo upholds and supports the significance of his scientific work and of science in general, not by humbling religion but by refuting the beliefs of those associated with it. In turn, he accuses them of wrongdoing in the name of Catholicism. By attributing this as the sole reason for any discrepancy between science and religion, he begins to attack his opponents. He does so in a very direct and precise way. First, he makes it clear that many of his opponents are ignorant of the current scientific developments, even those that are compatible with Catholic doctrine. The fact that Galileo had supporters from the Church proves that even the controversial points could be studied, as long as their legitimacy was not openly acknowledged. This justifies Galileo in accusing his adversaries of a complete lack of knowledge and understanding of science. "

Sample of Sources Used:

• Brandt, Heidirose. "Galileo as a Catholic Copernican." HUMA 1910 9.0 Science and the Humanities. York University, Toronto. 27 Sept. 2006.
• Drake, Stillman. Discoveries and Opinions of Galileo. New York: Anchor Books, 1957.
• Fichman, Martin. "The Galileo Affair." HUMA 1910 9.0 Science and the Humanities. York University, Toronto. 3 Oct. 2006.
• Galileo, Galilei. Letter New York: Anchor Books, 1957.

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