Intellectual Revolutions

Interaction Between Science & Technology, and Social, Cultural,

Course Political and Economic Context

Type Note

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@September 8, 2023 6:11 AM
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Intellectual Revolution showed how society was transformed by science and

technology

There is a revolution when it comes to change in information, or

shaping one’s knowledge based on facts

Brilliant minds responded to the call of the times and created things that could make
life easier for the people

It is a period where advancements in science and technology changes people’s

perceptions and beliefs

There should be a connection between religion and understanding of the world,

and intellectual issues gained issues to the religious groups. There are studies
and discoveries that didn’t align with what the religious group believe, and that
started the conflict between the two parties

It showed how society was transformed by science and technology

8 Intellectual Revolutions that defined Society

Copernican Revolution
Claudius Ptolemy stated that planets, as well as the sun and moon, moved around
the Earth, a concept known as geocentrism
In the 16th century, Nicolaus Copernicus introduced the concept of heliocentrism—
which suggested that the center of the Solar System was not the Earth but actually
the sun
Copernican Revolution was called the birth of modern astronomy

Nicolas Copernicus is often referred to as the "father of modern

astronomy" because of his groundbreaking work that
fundamentally changed the way we understand the structure of
the universe. His heliocentric model of the solar system, (On the
Revolutions of the Celestial Spheres) published in 1543, marked

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 a significant departure from the geocentric model that had been
widely accepted for centuries

Darwinian Revolution
It is considered as one of the most controversial intellectual revolutions of its time

Conflict with Religious Beliefs: One of the primary sources of

controversy surrounding evolution is its perceived conflict with
certain religious beliefs, particularly those that adhere to literal
interpretations of religious texts, such as the Bible's creation
accounts. The theory of evolution suggests that species have
evolved over millions of years through natural processes, while
some religious beliefs advocate for the concept of special
creation by a deity. This has led to tensions and debates
between proponents of evolution and certain religious groups

He published his book, on the Origin of Species. It introduced the theory of

evolution

Theory of Evolution - only the fittest would survive

Organisms have the ability to adapt to their environment and would gradually
change into something that would be more competitive to survive

This will remain a theory because of the missing links

The fossil known as Java Man, discovered in 1891, and that given the name
Pekin Man, discovered in 1923, have both been exposed as false
intermediate forms

The skull discovered in 1912 and known as Piltdown Man was exposed as a
hoax in 1953, have been placed on displace for the previous 40 years. Smith
Woodward reconstructed the skill fragment and hypothesized that they
belonged to a human

Freudian Revolution

Psychology was considered more of an art rather than a science

In the late 19th century, Sigmund Freud was able to change people’s perception of
psychology with his revolutionary theory of psychoanalysis

Psychoanalysis - study that explains human behavior

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 Psychoanalysis is a therapeutic approach that aims to help
individuals gain insight into their unconscious thoughts and
emotions, understand the influence of their past experiences,
and work through inner conflicts to achieve personal growth and
improved mental well-being
It's a way of understanding and treating mental and emotional
issues by exploring a person's unconscious thoughts, feelings,
and conflicts.

He argued that personality is a product of three conflicting elements: id, ego,

superego

Id:

The It: Think of the id as the "It." It's like the impulsive, pleasure-seeking
part of your personality.

Desires and Urges: The id is all about immediate gratification. It wants what
it wants when it wants it, without considering consequences.

Example: Imagine you're really hungry, and you want to eat a whole cake
without thinking about the fact that it might make you sick or that you'll
regret it later. That's the id.

Ego:

The Organizer: The ego is like the "Organizer" or the decision-maker in

your personality.

Reality and Reasoning: It's the part that tries to balance the desires of the id
with what's realistic and socially acceptable.

Example: When you're hungry (like the id), the ego steps in and decides to
have a reasonable meal because it knows you can't eat a whole cake
without consequences.

Superego:

The Conscience: The superego is like your "Conscience" or moral

compass.

Rules and Morals: It's the part that holds your sense of right and wrong,
learned from society and your upbringing.

Example: If you're thinking about stealing something, the superego reminds

you that stealing is wrong and makes you feel guilty about it.

Information Revolution

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 This is the computer age that has brought so much change on how are we living
today

Effects:

Increased globalization

The information revolution, often linked to the rise of the internet and digital
technology, has increased globalization because it has made it much easier for
people, businesses, and countries to connect and communicate with each other
across the world.

1. Instant Communication: The internet and digital tools allow people to

communicate instantly, no matter where they are. You can send an email,
make a video call, or chat with someone on the other side of the planet in
seconds.

2. Global Access: The internet gives people access to information and

resources from anywhere in the world. You can shop online for products
from different countries, learn from online courses taught by professors
worldwide, or work remotely for a company based in another continent.

3. Economic Integration: Businesses can easily buy and sell products and
services globally through e-commerce and digital platforms. This has led to
more international trade and economic interdependence.

4. Cultural Exchange: The information revolution has made it simple to share

and consume cultural content like music, movies, and news from around
the world. This has led to a greater exchange of ideas and cultures.

5. Social Media and Networking: Social media platforms allow people to

connect with others globally. You can make friends, share experiences, and
collaborate on projects with people from different countries.

6. Global Awareness: The internet and digital media have increased

awareness of global issues like climate change, human rights, and social
justice. This has led to more global activism and cooperation.

Increased speed of communication

Growth of multinational corporations

It has made it easier for companies to operate globally and expand their
businesses across borders

1. Global Communication: The information revolution has made it much easier

for people and businesses to communicate with each other across the
world. Think of the internet, email, video conferencing, and instant
messaging. MNCs can now quickly and efficiently connect with their offices,
partners, and customers in different countries.

2. Access to Information: MNCs rely on vast amounts of information to make

decisions. With the internet and advanced data systems, they can access
data and market information from anywhere. This helps them understand

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 global markets, consumer preferences, and economic trends, allowing for
smarter business strategies.

3. Efficient Operations: Improved technology and information systems enable

MNCs to manage their global operations more efficiently. They can
coordinate production, supply chains, and distribution across borders with
greater precision, reducing costs and increasing productivity.

4. Market Expansion: The internet and digital marketing have made it easier
for MNCs to reach consumers in different countries. They can advertise and
sell products or services globally through e-commerce platforms and digital
marketing campaigns, opening up new markets and revenue streams.

5. Research and Development: Advances in technology and communication

facilitate international collaboration in research and development (R&D).
MNCs can work with experts and scientists worldwide to innovate and
develop new products or technologies.

6. Global Workforce: MNCs can tap into a global talent pool. They can hire
skilled professionals and experts from around the world, allowing them to
have a diverse and specialized workforce.

7. Reduced Barriers: The information revolution has led to reduced trade and
communication barriers. Governments and international organizations have
also made efforts to facilitate global trade and investment, making it easier
for MNCs to operate internationally.

The information revolution has created a more interconnected world where

information flows freely and businesses can operate globally with greater ease.
This has allowed multinational corporations to expand their reach, increase
efficiency, access new markets, and tap into resources from around the world,
contributing to their growth and prominence on the global stage.

Decline of closed regional companies

Meso-American Revolution

It has contributed a lot ideas or discoveries for Archaeology

Incorporated their understanding of astronomy into their religious structures

1. Calendar Systems: Mesoamerican cultures developed complex calendar

systems that were closely tied to celestial events. The most famous of
these is the Mayan calendar, which consisted of several interlocking
calendars, including the Tzolk'in (260-day calendar) and the Haab' (365-day
calendar). These calendars were used to schedule religious ceremonies,
agricultural activities, and other important events based on astronomical
observations.

2. Sacred Direction: The alignment of temples and other religious structures

with celestial phenomena was a common practice. For example, many
temples were oriented toward specific points on the horizon where the sun

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 or other celestial bodies would rise or set during significant dates in the
calendar. This alignment reinforced the connection between the earthly and
celestial realms.

3. Venus Worship: Venus was an important celestial object in Mesoamerican

astronomy. Its appearance as the morning or evening star was closely
monitored, and it was associated with deities such as Quetzalcoatl (in Aztec
culture) and Kukulkan (in Maya culture). The movements of Venus were
used to predict events and determine auspicious times for various activities.

4. Solar Eclipses: Solar eclipses were seen as significant events in

Mesoamerican cosmology. They were often interpreted as omens or signs
from the gods, and rituals were performed to appease the deities during
eclipses. The ability to predict eclipses demonstrated the advanced
astronomical knowledge of these civilizations.

5. Cross-Quarter Days: Mesoamerican cultures celebrated important solar

events, such as the solstices and equinoxes, which marked the changing of
seasons. These events were often associated with religious ceremonies
and the positioning of sacred monuments.

6. Constellations and Mythology: Mesoamerican cultures had their own

constellations and celestial myths. These constellations often featured
prominently in their religious stories and rituals. The movements of celestial
objects were interpreted as the actions of gods and ancestors in the
heavens.

7. Ritual Sacrifice: The timing of ritual sacrifices was often determined by

astronomical events. Priests and rulers would consult the calendars and
celestial observations to choose the most auspicious times for conducting
ceremonies and offerings to the gods.

8. Cosmic Worldview: Mesoamerican cultures had a deeply ingrained cosmic

worldview, where the heavens and the celestial bodies were interconnected
with the terrestrial realm. The movements of celestial objects were seen as
reflections of the gods' will and were central to the understanding of the
natural and supernatural worlds.

Overall, Mesoamerican civilizations incorporated their understanding of

astronomy into their religious structures to create a rich tapestry of beliefs and
practices that connected their daily lives to the celestial realm. Astronomy was a
vital tool for religious leaders, rulers, and priests to legitimize their authority and
interpret the will of the gods.

3 Civilizations:

1. Olmecs - lived in farming villages around (1500-400BC)

a. Colossal Stone Heads: The Olmec civilization is famous for its massive
stone heads, which are believed to represent important individuals, possibly
rulers or deities. These colossal heads are carved from basalt and can
weigh several tons. The Olmec created these heads as part of their

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 monumental art and likely used them as symbols of power and authority.
They did not call themselves "stone heads"; this is a term used by
archaeologists and historians to describe these iconic sculptures.

b. Rubber: The Olmec were one of the earliest Mesoamerican cultures to use
rubber, which they extracted from the latex of rubber trees. They used
rubber to create various objects, including balls for a ceremonial ballgame
that had religious and ritual significance. The rubber balls were used in a
game called "tlachtli" or "ullamaliztli," which was a key aspect of Olmec and
later Mesoamerican cultures. The Olmec did not refer to themselves as
"rubber people"; this is another modern term used to describe their use of
rubber and its cultural importance.

In summary, the Olmec civilization is known for its colossal stone heads and the
use of rubber, but these terms are modern descriptors used to refer to specific
aspects of their culture and art. The Olmec people likely had their own names
and identities for these elements within their culture, but such specifics may not
be known due to the limited written records from their civilization.

2. Mayans - developed the numbering system (300 BC-900 AD) including the
place value and concept of zero. They also developed a solar calendar with 365
days

3. Aztecs - built chinampas/floating gardens (12th-15th Century)

Asian Revolution
Is the biggest continent in the world that has an incredibly important role in the
evolution of our digital age

Mahatma Gandhi - freedom

Mahatma Gandhi made significant contributions to the Asian Revolution, particularly
through his leadership in the Indian independence movement against British
colonial rule. While Gandhi's impact extended beyond Asia, his efforts had a
profound influence on the broader struggle for self-determination and independence
across the continent. Here are some of the key contributions of Mahatma Gandhi to
the Asian Revolution:

1. Nonviolent Resistance (Satyagraha): Gandhi is perhaps best known for his

philosophy of nonviolent resistance, which he called "Satyagraha." He
advocated for the use of nonviolence as a powerful tool for achieving political
and social change. His methods of civil disobedience, boycotts, and peaceful
protests inspired movements for independence and social justice not only in
India but also in other Asian and global contexts.

2. Inspiration to Other Movements: Gandhi's success in using nonviolent

resistance to challenge British colonial rule served as an inspiration to other
Asian nationalist movements. Leaders and activists in countries such as
Myanmar (Burma), Sri Lanka (Ceylon), and Indonesia looked to Gandhi's
strategies and principles as they pursued their own quests for independence.

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 3. International Attention: Gandhi's leadership in the Indian independence
movement garnered significant international attention. His advocacy for civil
rights, social justice, and independence resonated with people around the
world, including leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. in the United States. This
international visibility contributed to a global awareness of the struggles in Asia
and the broader fight against colonialism.

4. Unity and Solidarity: Gandhi's emphasis on unity among diverse communities in

India, regardless of religion or caste, was instrumental in fostering a sense of
solidarity among Indians. This unity was crucial in the struggle for
independence and served as a model for other Asian countries facing divisions
along ethnic or religious lines.

5. Role in Negotiations: Gandhi played a pivotal role in negotiations with the

British authorities, including in discussions related to the terms of India's
independence. His leadership and commitment to nonviolence helped shape
the outcome of these negotiations and the eventual granting of independence to
India in 1947.

6. Legacy of Nonviolence: Gandhi's legacy of nonviolence continues to influence

social and political movements worldwide. His philosophy of nonviolent
resistance has been adopted by activists in various contexts, including the Civil
Rights Movement in the United States and struggles for civil rights and
democracy in other parts of Asia.

7. Advocacy for Social Justice: Beyond independence, Gandhi was a strong

advocate for social justice. He campaigned against social evils such as
untouchability, promoted economic self-sufficiency through the spinning wheel
(khadi), and championed the rights of marginalized communities, particularly
the Dalits (formerly known as "untouchables").

In summary, Mahatma Gandhi's contributions to the Asian Revolution were

multifaceted. His leadership in the Indian independence movement, his philosophy
of nonviolent resistance, and his advocacy for social justice had a profound and
lasting impact not only in India but also throughout Asia and the world, shaping the
course of history and inspiring future generations of activists and leaders.

In the present, Japan is the most notable for the contribution of it’s scientific and
technological achievement

Middle East Revolution

The revolutions in the Middle East were a product of the development and growth of
individual nationalism, imperialism, for the efforts to westernize and modernize
Middle Eastern societies, and to push the declining power of the Ottoman Empire in
the Arab Region
The Islamic Golden Age - applied the principles of watermill and improved it and
called it Noria or Saqiyah

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 African Revolution
Known as the first societal intellectual revolution
Considered as the base of knowledge in modern science

The notion that the African continent is the base of knowledge in modern science is
not a widely held view in mainstream scholarship. However, it is important to
recognize the significant contributions of African civilizations to various fields of
knowledge, which have influenced the development of modern science. Here are
some reasons why African history and civilizations are considered important in the
context of knowledge and science:

1. Ancient African Civilizations: Africa is home to some of the world's oldest

civilizations, such as Ancient Egypt and the Kingdom of Kush. These
civilizations made advancements in areas like mathematics, medicine,
architecture, and engineering. The construction of the pyramids, for example,
reflects a deep understanding of mathematics and engineering principles.

2. Mathematics: Ancient Africans made significant contributions to mathematics.

The Ishango bone, a 20,000-year-old artifact discovered in the Democratic
Republic of Congo, is believed to be one of the earliest examples of
mathematical notation. Additionally, Ancient Egyptians developed a system of
mathematics that influenced later civilizations.

3. Medicine and Pharmacology: African civilizations had extensive knowledge of

medicinal plants and herbs. Ancient Egyptian medical texts, such as the Edwin
Smith Papyrus, contain detailed descriptions of surgical procedures and
medical treatments. African traditional medicine also includes a wealth of
knowledge about the healing properties of plants.

4. Astronomy and Navigation: African cultures, particularly in North and East

Africa, had advanced knowledge of astronomy and navigation. The Great
Pyramid of Giza, for example, is aligned with remarkable precision to cardinal
points, indicating a deep understanding of celestial movements. Ancient African
societies also used celestial navigation for trade and exploration.

5. Metallurgy and Technology: Some African societies, such as the Nok civilization
in West Africa, developed advanced metallurgical techniques. They were skilled
in working with iron and other metals, which contributed to technological
advancements.

6. Cultural Knowledge and Oral Traditions: African societies have rich oral
traditions that pass down knowledge through storytelling and songs. These
traditions often contain valuable insights into natural phenomena, environmental
practices, and historical events.

While African civilizations made significant contributions to various fields of

knowledge, it's important to note that the development of modern science is a
complex and multifaceted process that involved contributions from many regions
and cultures around the world. Modern science, as we understand it today, is built
on the collective contributions of diverse societies and civilizations.

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