Next message: (no email): "Taking the mirror out of the equation"
Lu wrote
> Given the level of scientific knowledge, inquiry, and downright genius
> among the ancient Greeks, I'm rather surprised that the idea of a
> heliocentric universe didn't occur to one of them.
It did indeed occur to one or more of them, Aristarchus of Samos. (Approx.
300BC if memory serves--learned initially in a book obtained for me by
Alex.) Long story short, the body politic was enamored with Plato et al so
that was "wrong" in so many ways. That whole circle/sphere/uniform motion
ran through Copernicus, and partially through Kepler et al. Problem being,
no math or physics, and only approximate measurements, to prove/disprove
theories. Not dissimilar to the state we can still find "advanced" physics
in, IMHO.
Ken of Celestaire mentioned Arthur Koestler's "The Sleepwalkers" on the list
a while back. I find it a tough read, as I feel it plays to a well-rounded
and highly-educated audience, but then takes certain liberties the intended
reader might (should IMHO) find suspect. But if you can wade through the
psychoanalysis ad nauseum and leaps, there is a good view of the history of
astronomy, as well as other interesting information to be gleaned.
Bill
