[Chronon]

Originally posted by Imperator Fyron:
Technically, the Catholic Church did perpetuate the European Dark Ages for many more centuries than it would have Lasted otherwise by persecuting any scientists that cropped up as heretics (eg: Galileo).

Fyron, I'm curious about your argument on this point. Aside from Galileo, did you have anyone else in mind? If you go by the meta-narrative presented by most textbooks of "Western Civ," the "Middle Ages" were over by the time of Galileo (1564-1642). The usual periodization has them come to a close with the Italian Renaissance (1350-1550). So, he's not the best example to support your argument.

The "church versus science" theme is still a very strong one in our perceptions of history, so I'm intrigued by your position, and would like to hear more of your argument.

Edit: I can't spell...

[ March 07, 2003, 22:25: Message edited by: Chronon ]