The Copernican Shift

At long last, Hoosier Scientist has posted a THIRD “Question Worth Considering.” First, we encouraged our followers to explore the science, technology, art and economics of color imaging. Second came resources and guiding questions for exploring the continuing environmental issues of US chemical weapons dumped at the end of WWII. Our third question is, “Can You Make the Copernican Shift?”

The new question may seem to have been settled scientifically, unlike our other questions. It does remain unanswered, however, when the focus is on each learner’s ability to reconcile the Earth-centered views we see directly with the Sun-centered viewpoint which Copernicus claimed was more valid. The technical aspect of the question is fairly straight-forward and appropriate to anyone with even a mild interest in astronomy. Hoosier Scientist might even post an Answer Key for the technical question if someone can suggest a way to do it without spoiling the fun.

The historical, philosophical and religious aspects of question 3, however, are far from settled. You should not expect an answer key for those. Still, it is a question worth considering in all its aspects. Our fundamental claim is simply that personal and collective progress depends on looking at important issues from multiple viewpoints.