Just as the Renaissance saw a great evolution in European art the Scientific Revolution of approximately the same timeframe was a huge evolution in European science. The works of scientists such as Copernicus Galileo and Newton significantly changed Europeans mindsets. Their work was definitely affected by important components of the societies that they lived in. Religious controversy hindered the work of scientists by creating barriers to the spread of scientific ideas. Leaders supported science for their own political purposes helping in its advance. Although there was widespread support for science the norms of society crippled the strength and effectiveness of those who hoped to further and embrace scientific ideas. First, a major factor in the endeavors of these scientists was the staunch opposition of the Catholic Church. The Church had a great deal of control over science at this point in history as evidenced by Galileo's experience with the Inquisition where he was punished by the Church for his work in favor of heliocentricity. Scientists were driven to ingratiate themselves with the Church to make sure that their work would be able to reach enough people. This is certainly seen in the writing of Copernicus to Pope Paul III when he states. It is to your Holiness rather than to anyone else that I have chosen to dedicate these studies of mine.
