Popper

• Before science, Popper argued that knowledge was metaphysical, meaning it could neither be proved or disproved.

  As such, it was a matter of faith rather than reason or evidence, such as religion, tradition and authority.
• Until the 1500s, knowledge of the natural and social world was provided by religion and mediated through the Church.
• From the 16th century onwards, science and history aimed to establish knowledge using rational thought and empirical evidence to replace the metaphysical approach to knowledge.

  However, many scientists and historians argued they were just revealing laws established by God. This way, science and religion remained broadly attuned.
• Explain what is meant by metaphysical thought:

  Metaphysical thoughts are ideas which are just accepted and never really challenged such as religion, traditions or authority. As it is revealed truth, it is looked down upon to challenge these ideas.
• The importance of the 1517 Reformation:

  Change from an immanent God (people expected God to act on their behalf, elevating themselves to the same level of power as stated by Martin Luther)

  To a transcendent God, meaning God is beyond the world, so people cannot influence him and must come up with their own solutions.