Galileo: A Very Short Introduction

I recommend this book to those who are interested in further exploring the juncture of the so-called "war" between both science and religion. Drake posits that the Galileo Affair occurred largely due to an under-investigated error. This error, related to an unsigned Affidavit that was authored by the Vatican, fueled the fire for the case of an actual "war" between science and religion. What Drake uncovers, is that philosophy actually played a bigger role in the Galileo Affair than most would care to admit. The Vatican was heavily invested in the Aristotelian school of thought, relating to space and the Earth resting as the center of the Universe; that is, heliocentricity. What emerges for Drake, is a probable misunderstanding of Galileo's devotion to the philosophical wisdom and truth contained within the Universe. Drake paints a highly plausible picture that Galileo was a very devoted Catholic, who insisted upon maintaining the integrity of the Vatican.

The experience of this Very Short Introduction is positive in meeting my want of a concise biography of an individual i find very interesting and significant in science history.There are many stories of Galileo,and this book does not give in to easy acceptance,instead explores the real events with original source material and not conjuncture.Plus,it makes the science aspects understandable,while placing his work in the historical context required.As a bonus i experienced being in 17th century Florence and Rome.

As usual the Very Short Introduction series comes through again . Very informative in such a compact book. I really enjoy all the books I have read in this series

Small print makes it hard to read at times. Written in a manner that at times is too formal.Helpful for understanding more about the early times before Galileo.

Professor Drake is a well-known specialist on Galileo scientific achievements. This little book is a nice short ntroduction to the this subject.

A great short reference to keep on my desk.

Brilliant. Very interesting.

Stillman Drake, a preeminent expert on Galileo, combines a very concise biography of the life, and brief descriptions of his scientific writings, with a largely convincing argument that Galileo's work initially offended Aristotelean philosophers - the academic establishment of his day - rather than the Church. The former felt threatened by his evidence-based approach to science, and stirred up elements of the Church against him. Galileo himself never wavered in his loyalty to the Church, which he recognized to be making a tragic mistake in attacking the new learning of science.

A very human approach to the work of Galileo giving a refreshingly new image of a pious and hardworking scientist who was very keen to protect the Church from its own follies.