The Beginnings of the Scientific Revoution: The Taboo of the New

In the Graeco-Roman world the highest praise you could give an idea was its reputed antiquity. The longer established an idea was the more weight it carried. To challenge the teachings of the great ancients was considered philosophically blasphemous, ideologically dangerous and intellectually unserious by medieval academics. For them, an idea’s newness was actually a mark against it.

This week, we will explore how the taboo on new ideas was broken within paving the way for cultural and scientific revolutions. We have made a non-comprehensive list of questions that may be explored in this free-flowing, lively, facilitated discussion.

Is there any innate value to "old ideas"?

What does it take to overthrow/amend well-established ideas? Culturally? Scientifically? Philosophically?

How has the transition from old to new happened in the past (examples: geo-centrism to helio-centrism, racial equality, etc)?

How did a scientific understanding of the world differ from older, more established methods of inquiry?

What are some examples of old ideas that are currently being left behind for new ideas? What are the impediments to this transition?

What are some old ideas that have stood the test of time?

What are some examples of current changes in thinking that you do not view as positive?

To stimulate discussion and to offer a common grounding, we have listed the following reading. This is not required but it is encouraged in order to facilitate discussion. We look forward to seeing you there!

http://www.godlessgee...

The Park Plaza Restaurant is a Brooklyn Heights-located diner with lots of space, fairly priced food, and beer, wine and cocktails.

Admission to this dinner discussion is free but limited; please RSVP here to attend.

http://www.parkplazar....
220 Cadman Plaza West
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Directions:

A or C to High Street
2 or 3 to Clark Street
4, 5, M or R to Court Street, Borough Hall