Prelude to Galileo

Exploring the intellectual landscape of the sixteenth century, William A. Wallace delves into the complex interplay between nominalism and realism, crucial to understanding the foundations of modern science. This volume serves as a companion to Wallace's earlier work, shedding light on the 'realist' sources that influenced Galileo. Addressing the continuity and discontinuity in scientific development, Wallace critiques and supports the revolutionary impact of Galileo's work while recognizing the contributions of other key historians and philosophers.