Greeks vs Pythagoras: Universe Theory

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In summary, Greek philosophers had a wide range of theories about the universe, but Pythagoras' theory was one of the most influential. He believed in a spherical, harmonious universe with the Earth at its center, and that numbers and geometry were the key to understanding it. This concept had a lasting impact on Western thought and laid the foundation for modern astronomy and cosmology. However, later Greek philosophers, such as Aristotle, proposed alternative theories that challenged Pythagoras' ideas and expanded our understanding of the universe. Ultimately, the debate between the Greeks and Pythagoras over the nature of the universe played a crucial role in shaping our understanding of the cosmos today.
  • #1
wateroksnmud
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I understand the greek theory of the universe (Sphere's within sphere's within sphere's) but other than the fact the universe is based on mathematics, is there any other variations in the belief of the universe from the pythagoras?
 
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Thread moved to General Discussion forum - does not pertain to our current understanding of science, math, or technology.
 
  • #3
Redbelly98 said:
Thread moved to General Discussion forum - does not pertain to our current understanding of science, math, or technology.

Not trying to come off wrong but it's intro to physics. Has to do with the introduction to out solar system and how we came about finding the distance and size's of the sun and moon which lead to the findinf og gravitational pull.

The book it's out of is Physics : Concepts and Connections
 
  • #4
I'm not entirely sure what you're asking. Other greek philosophers and scientists tried to improve on the Pythagorean model (which failed to explain retrograde motions of the planets). The Greeks were preoccupied with notions of mathematical aesthetics however which hindered their progression.
 
  • #5
If this is the question:

wateroksnmud said:
... other than the fact the universe is based on mathematics, is there any other variations in the belief of the universe from the pythagoras?

then I'd answer yes, there are many variations between what we believe now and the view Phythagoras! For one, Pythagoras had the Earth as a perfect sphere, located at the center of the universe.

The Pythagoras view is described in a little more detail at this site:
http://sacred-texts.com/earth/boe/boe20.htm
Scroll almost halfway down the page, or just search the page for "pythag". If you read the description there, you can compare/contrast it to what we know about the solar system and universe today.
 
  • #6
Hail to the spider, irrational numbers don't exist! Oh wait, Pythagorean theorem, yes they do, damn. But you should still abstain from beans.
 
  • #7
"1.414213562373... 0950488 .. 016887242097... *sigh* screw it! You're going overboard!"
 
  • #8
wateroksnmud said:
is there any other variations in the belief

Kepler tried for years to find a correspondence between the orbits of the planets and the "perfect" solids (cube = 6 squares , tetrahedron = 4 equilateral trianges, dodecahedron = 12 pentagons, etc.) I wonder if there are any original sources available.
 
  • #9
I'm not aware of any original sources but it is documented that Kepler's early attempts at explaining the ratios between planetary orbits involved the use of platonic solids built around he orbital shells.
 

FAQ: Greeks vs Pythagoras: Universe Theory

What is the difference between the Greeks' universe theory and Pythagoras' universe theory?

The Greeks believed that the universe was made up of four elements: earth, air, fire, and water. They also believed that the Earth was the center of the universe. Pythagoras, on the other hand, believed in a heliocentric universe where the sun was the center and that the universe was made up of numerical relationships.

How did Pythagoras' universe theory influence modern astronomy?

Pythagoras' idea of a heliocentric universe and numerical relationships between celestial bodies laid the foundation for modern astronomy. His theories were further built upon by other scientists, leading to the development of our current understanding of the universe.

Did Pythagoras have any evidence to support his universe theory?

Pythagoras did not have any direct evidence for his universe theory. It was based on his belief in the power and beauty of numbers and his observations of the harmony and order in the universe.

How did the Greeks' universe theory impact their culture and society?

The Greeks' universe theory had a significant impact on their culture and society. It influenced their art, literature, and philosophy, as they believed that the elements of earth, air, fire, and water were reflected in all aspects of life. It also influenced their understanding of the natural world and their belief in the power of the gods and goddesses.

What are some criticisms of Pythagoras' universe theory?

One criticism of Pythagoras' universe theory is that it lacks empirical evidence and relies heavily on abstract mathematical concepts. Another criticism is that it does not account for the complexity and diversity of the universe, as it reduces everything to numerical relationships. Additionally, his theory has been challenged by modern scientific discoveries, such as the theory of relativity and quantum mechanics.

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