A philosophical evaluation on Heliocentric Universe Theory of Copernicus in the context of Renaissance humanism

"Renaissance" as a cultural movement originated in Italy, made possible the birth of humanist movement. Although the aim of the humanist movement was to rediscover the Ancient Greek works, later on it also established a basis for scientific activities. This attitude held for the Ancient Greek world, paved the way for many scientists like Copernicus at that time. Copernicus, who was in Italy experiencing the Renaissance movement, investigated the studies of the Ancient Greeks on astronomy and even revolutionized their studies. Doing so, he became the pioneer of the astronomical studies in the 16th century. At that time, Copernicus came up with the "Heliocentric Universe Model" opposing the "Geocentric Universe Model" which was adopted by the church. His work and the way he followed while establishing his studies, influenced other scientists. For the church was still yet to have lost its authority, it wasn't easy for Copernicus to make public his theory. His proper evaluation for his theory while publishing it and gaining the tolerance of the church, encouraged other scientists coming after him. Copernicus who was also a member of a church, examined the studies of the Aristotle and Ptolemy on astronomy and disagreed with the their views on the earth's being an immobile celestial body. Despite the limited opportunities of the period for proper astronomical observation, nevertheless via his mathematical calculations he discovered that the earth was both mobile and was not the center of universe. The "Heliocentric Universe Theory" of Copernicus has a philosophical basis besides its scientific aspect. This study aims to put forward the factors that led Copernicus to his revolutionary "Heliocentric Universe Theory" and take into account the eminence of this theory for the Renaissance period. In this sense, the "Heliocentric Universe Theory" of Copernicus will be investigated through a philosophical perspective. Keywords: Copernicus, Astronomy, Heliocentric Universe Theory, Medieval, Renaissance.