Today we celebrate the birthday of Sir Isaac Newton, born this day in 1642 (old style Julian calendar). Newton remains one of the true giants of science, having discovered that gravity affects celestial bodies according to the same laws that we observe on Earth. Newton’s laws are still used by NASA today when sending vehicles into space - an amazing achievement for the seventeenth century.
So kick back today and raise a toast to Sir Isaac. And remember, Newton was actually born on December 25th, unlike, er, that other guy whose birthday is also celebrated by many today.
Big deal!
How jejune.....
Posted by: Polly Dorjay | December 28, 2005 at 03:10 PM
Newton was a Christian. His worldview likely had impact on his scientific pursuits more than you might imagine. Given that he was a Christian first and a scientists second, I think he would take issue with your post as written if he were alive today.
Posted by: | December 29, 2005 at 10:51 AM
The both of you need to lighten up and get a sense of humor.
Posted by: Skeptico | December 29, 2005 at 02:31 PM
One thing I've noticed is that there seems to be a correlation between humor and skepticism. For example, George Carlin, the greatest comedian EVAR, is a skeptic. Randi, arguably the greatest skeptic ever, has a pretty good sense of humor.
I think we should study this phenomenon.
Also, somehow, I doubt Newton's Christianity depended on Jesus being born on December 25th. Didn't he live back when December 25th was considered unwholesome or something?
Posted by: BronzeDog | December 29, 2005 at 03:12 PM
Isaac Newton (1642-1727)
In optics, mechanics, and mathematics, Newton was a figure of undisputed genius and innovation. In all his science (including chemistry) he saw mathematics and numbers as central. What is less well known is that he was devoutly religious and saw numbers as involved in understanding from the Bible God's plan for history. He did a lot of work on biblical numerology, and, though aspects of his beliefs were not orthodox, he thought theology very important. In his system of physics, God is essential to the nature and absoluteness of space. In Principia he stated, "The most beautiful system of the sun, planets, and comets, could only proceed from the counsel and dominion on an intelligent and powerful Being."
Posted by: Mayor Naze | December 29, 2005 at 03:57 PM
"The most beautiful system of the sun, planets, and comets, could only proceed from the counsel and dominion on an intelligent and powerful Being."
Newton was a great man, but that didn't make him immune to foolishness.
Posted by: BronzeDog | December 30, 2005 at 05:51 AM
Amazing what we have discovered since Newton, no?
Posted by: Rockstar Ryan | December 30, 2005 at 06:06 AM