Galileo Galilei (1554-1642) was an Italian polymath (a person whose expertise
spans a significant number of different subject areas). He was placed on trial by
the Catholic Church. Identify and explain the theory that the Church held
regarding the universe (and the position of Earth within it). Identify and explain
Galileo's theory. Identify the earlier scientist on whose work Galileo based his
theory. Describe why the Church felt so threatened by what Galileo proposed.
Explain what this matter says to us about the role of religion in explaining the
natural world.