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THE BODY ENQUIRES • THE MIND ENDURES • WEEKLY RUNNING DIALOGUES • ENDURANCE AS ENQUIRY • PONDERING TOPICS •

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04/12/2026 @ Waterton Canyon, CO

  • Writer: Puzz Reactz
    Puzz Reactz
  • Apr 11
  • 2 min read


12437-12489 Waterton Canyon

 Littleton, Colorado 80127

10:00-11:30 AM MST


Topics:

  1. Kepler's Theories on planetary motion

  2. A brief overview on the history of discoveries on planetary motion

  3. What constitutes science itself.


Sources (Read Before):


  1. Science vs. Pseudoscience: Provides a brief framework on what constitutes scientific vs. fiction.

  2. A History of Our Knowledge of the Solar System: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ecHhGAiBoI8. It brings up a lot of names; each name we could spend a whole week on.

  3. Kepler's Celestial Music: Outlines his main theories on planetary orbit.

  4. Kepler's Dumb Idea That Wasn't So Dumb! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3tOhNRjIHVc


Make some notes on interesting points. The point is not to quiz on the fine minute details (dates, names, etc)--you can read all, some, or none. Zero pressure to read all, especially if you do not have time. These sources are merely meant to be convenient ways to help inform your opinion and fortify/build it up, not lectures. You can (and are encouraged to) read other sources as well to further gather information and work into your worldviews.


Discussion Questions:

  1. Do you agree with this definition of science? Is it too loose (allows too much), or too restrictive (can dismiss discoveries)?

  2. What are some reasons that would have supported accepting Kepler’s system over the others at the time he proposed it? What were some reasons not to accept Kepler’s system (and perhaps accept some other system)? Considering all the available evidence, which theory (if any) do you think was best supported?

  3. How did Kepler “discover” his laws? What are some empirical beliefs or findings that factored into his discovery or formulation of them? What are some philosophical or conceptual commitments that factored into his discovery?

  4. Overall, would you describe Kepler’s work as scientific? What are some aspects of his work that might incline one to say “yes”? What are some aspects that might incline one to say “no” Do you think there are any interesting lessons to be learned about what makes for “good science”, or about scientific progress, from Kepler’s life and work?

We look forward to seeing you! Make sure to hydrate and enjoy the views!

 
 
 

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