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Galileo (1564-1642) is sometimes viewed as the "Father of Modern Science" because of his various contributions to science. However, his most controversial position was when he attempted to promote the heliocentric theory, that the earth revolves around the sun, a theory opposed by the Catholic Church because it was contrary to a literal reading of scriptures. The pope reached an agreement with Galileo that he would not promote this theory, unless he could irrefutably prove his position. However, Galileo was strong-willed and abrasive, and soon broke his promise. He was eventually tried by the Inquisition and placed under house arrest, on condition that he recant his views. Galileo was fortunate, firstly to have important friends, and secondly that the Church's attitude to scientific inquiry was gradually becoming more liberal. A predecessor, Giordano Bruno (1548-1600) was burnt at the stake for similar sins. Today, the theory of heliocentrism is universally accepted, but it took until 1965 for the Roman Catholic Church to revoke its condemnation of Galileo.

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17y ago

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