In the Fourteenth Century, the 'Calculators' of the University of Oxford

question 64

Multiple Choice

In the fourteenth century, the 'Calculators' of the University of Oxford argued that:

• A) Objects of different weights fall at a uniform level of acceleration.
• B) There was no such thing as a vacuum in space, in spite of Aristotle's claims.
• C) 'Arabic' numerals were more useful in establishing valid calculations than Roman numerals.
• D) Aristotle's treatises had been so badly translated from Arabic documents that they were impossible to decipher.

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Definitions:

Obedience

A form of social influence where an individual acts in response to a direct order from another individual, usually an authority figure.

Persuasion

The act or process of influencing someone's beliefs, attitudes, or behaviors through argument, reasoning, or appeal.

Groupthink

A behavioral pattern observed in groups where the pursuit of agreement or uniformity leads to choices that are illogical or counterproductive.

Challenger Disaster

The catastrophic failure of the Space Shuttle Challenger shortly after its launch on January 28, 1986, leading to the death of all seven crew members.