​The historical prelude to, The historical facts of and the Aftermath ofThe Galileo Affair

An article written by the founder, Dr. Rossi. This article will be broken down into 6 parts, posted throughout the next few months.

The Prelude

No one of any persuasion can deny that that Science and
Religion are two of the most significant influences on human
civilization. In the west the influence of Augustine of Hippo was
predominant for a millennium and a half. He believed there is only one
source of truth and any difference in any point of time between the
rational and intellectual study of God, his activities and relationship to
his creation (Theology) and the study of the natural world (Science)
should and can be resolved. However only by intense study of the Book
of Scripture and the Book of Nature. One has Faith so that he might
understand but he also understands when he has Faith. He counsels
that in our study of the past we must accommodate our assessments to
the level of knowledge available at that time. This stands opposite to
the modern idea proposed by Steven Jay Gould that the two are
mutually exclusive and any consideration of one by the other pointless;
and today to the oft expressed idea that Science and Religion are
mutually antagonistic and constantly at war. This idea is rejected by ALL
modern historians of science. Yet It has been The predominant point of
contention since the 19 th century, largely the result of the intentions of
two men. The first is John William Draper (1811-1882) a physician and
first president of the American Chemical Society whose book “A History
of the Conflict between Science and Religion” went through 50
editions. It is a vitriolic truth distorting diatribe largely responsible for
anti- religious feeling persisting to today; still available but too
embarrassing to quote. The other the first president of Cornell Univ.
Andrew D. White whose book “A History of warfare between Science
and Religion is noted for fallacious arguments based on bogus sources.
Its lies live on.