Kepler and Inertia

Johannes Kepler
1571-1630

In this podcast, Jack and Mark review the concept of inertia and its modern conceptual introduction by German scientist, Johannes Kepler. Kepler's life was a fascinating blend of interests, including astronomy, mathematics, and astrology. Learn about the overlap between the ordinary, everyday use of the concept of inertia (particularly in a very famous movie released in 1999), and the specific way it is defined in science. Along the way, you will also hear about the ideas of Aristotle, Galileo, and Newton.

Show Notes:

Selected Awards and Publications associated with Johannes Kepler:

Astronomae Nova (1609)
(Latin for
New Astronomy)
Kepler argues for heliocentrism and
introduces the first two laws of
planetary motion.
Harmonices Mundi (1619)
(Latin for
The Harmony of the World)
Kepler discusses the third law of
planetary motion and includes
a chapter on astrology.
Epitome Astronomae Copernicanae (1618-1621)
(Latin for
Summary of Copernican Astronomy)
Published as a seven volume work over several years.
The first modern scientific use of the term "inertia" is found in this work.

Discussed in the episode:

Errata: At 8:54 into the podcast, Jack inadvertently says "1960's" rather that "1610's" when historically placing the first occurrence of the term inertia in a modern scientific context.

Isaac Newton
1642-1727
Isaac Newton's Philosophae Naturalis Principia Mathematica (1687)
(Latin for Mathematical Principles of Natural Philosophy)
In this book Newton states the first law of motion: The Law of Inertia
Galileo Galilei
1564 - 1642

Other items of interest related to this podcast:

Kepler's mother, Katharina, being shown instruments of torture, after being accused of witchcraft (1615).
Horoscope written by Kepler in the late 1500's