Galileo Galilei (1564-1642) is widely recognized as one of the greatest scientific thinkers in history. Intriguingly, when offered a place in the Medici court in 1610, he requested the title of «Philosopher and Chief Mathematician.» Reading Natures Book: Galileo and the Birth of Modern Philosophy is the first book-length study written with undergraduates in mind that examines the philosophical implications (both theoretical and historical) of Galileos scientific discoveries, including many matters that were later taken up by seventeenth- and eighteenth-century philosophers. This close analysis of Galileos philosophical insights demonstrates the prominent place his thought should have in the history of early modern philosophy. Reading Natures Book provides contextual material for college and university students enrolled in modern philosophy courses, introducing them to ideas and concepts that dominated philosophical discussion during the era. Furthermore, students and scholars interested in the history of philosophy of science will also benefit from a decidedly philosophical approach to such a leading scientific figure. Many of the topics explored by Galileo continue to be of philosophical interest today, including scientific methodology and the relation between science and religion.

Contents: Galileo and Philosophy: A Message from the Stars – A Dispute over Buoyancy – Inertia, Empiricism, and Spots on the Sun – Science and Religion – Troubles in Rome: 1615-1616 – Mathematics and the Book of Nature – Showdown – Matter and Motion.