Print this page Great Thinkers of the Scientific Revolution

The Scientific Revolution reshaped human understanding of nature, knowledge and society. This course introduces the key thinkers behind this transformation. 

We explore the ideas of figures such as Bacon, Galileo, Descartes and Newton, examining how they challenged established beliefs and opened new ways of thinking. 

Beyond science, we consider the wider impact on religion, politics and society, revealing why this period remains one of history’s most important intellectual turning points.

DELIVERY MODE

Face to face/Online

COURSE OUTLINE

• The social and political context of seventeenth century Europe
• The 17th century’s leading theories as they relate to philosophy, science, society and politics
• How the conflict between science and religion shaped the modern world
• The emergence of the modern state and international law in political thought
• An introduction to the ideas of leading thinkers, including Bacon, Galileo, Descartes, Hobbes and Newton
• Reflection on how relevant remain the theories and values developed during the C17th and whether they have been superseded

LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of this course, students should be able to:

1. Explain the significance of the C17th in the development of modern thought
2. Understand the key concepts developed by C17th thinkers to explain the physical world and human society
3. Assess the strengths and limits of C17th ideas, especially in their scientific and social context
4. Think critically about the continuing relevance of C17th ideas and the extent to which they remain valid today