Christian theology and the principle of inertia in physics

The article discusses the dependence of formulation law inertia in classical mechanics on theological concepts its time. It is shown that medieval science, all attempts to solve problem motion a thrown body were made within framework Aristotelian understanding as actualization possible. Nevertheless, theory impetus (John Philopon), natural philosophers came close principle preserving amount movement (Jean Buridan). Galileo, who himself began his work with an attempt mathematize concept impetus, mature works proceeded principled criticism motion. However, despite Socratic power Maevtic method, he failed prove inertia. Galileo’s virtuoso dialectic only allowed him destroy objections by Descartes gives positive proof inertia, and basis deduction thesis about immutability God. Newton was closely related passivity matter. shows this echoes Protestant (Luther’s) Christian way cultivation passive righteousness, where activity salvation conditioned action