the Scientific Revolution, science homework help

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After completing the required readings for this week’s post, I understand the subject of natural magic as it relates to the Scientific Revolution simply as a means of “explaining” the unexplainable. I would like to jump a little bit ahead of myself and use Isaac Newton’s treatment of gravity as an example of my basic and blanket definition of natural magic. Even though scientific studies had come a long way by the time Newton proposed his findings pertaining to the force of gravity, it was still a bit of a farce for some to wrap their heads around. Applying the idea of natural magic to the explanation of gravity is a much easier concept to accept (or wrap one’s head around). Henry (2001) adds that natural magic and its associated traditions had long lasting effects on the origins of science as we know it today. As science progressed there was a shift in the overall acceptance of natural magic by scientists, science no longer relied on natural magic for explanations as successes in the scientific world were increasing, and common people, who were beginning to shun natural magic resulting in a dark label that natural magic still retains today (Henry, 2001). Whether we are talking about the power of positive thinking or the four earthly essences there is no doubt that science has magical roots (Bowles & Kaplan, 2012). I think it is important to consider that Henry (2001) concludes with the fact that science and medicine remain indebted to natural magic.

Bowles, M. & Kaplan, B. (2012). Science & culture throughout history. San Diego, CA: Bridgepoint Education, Inc. Retrieved from www.ashfordeducation.com.

Henry, J. (2001, December). Chapter 4: Magic and the origins of modern science. In Scientific revolution and the origins of modern science (2nd ed). Gordonsville, VA: Palgrave Macmillin.