The renaissance of science and learning

We can also point to other examples of the combination of Renaissance humanism and science and technology. The great painter, Leonardo da Vinci was, in addition, a brilliant engineer, who constructed advanced weapons for his various patrons, including Francis I of France.

Copernicus’ theory formed the first step towards a scientific revolution. In the following period, his theory was confirmed by observations by Kepler (1571—1630) and particularly Galileo (1564—1642) and finally led to Newton’s (1642—1727) theory of gravitation. This not only led to a more exact knowledge of the universe but also meant a methodological revolution in science, which was followed by others. The consequences of this will be discussed in the following.