Hero of Alexandria points Rome towards the Space Age

[Analytical Engine]

What did Europe know of in 1670 that's not on the list?

Antimony. Useful for stamps in printing presses, don't you know.

 

[Faeelin]

I'm saying that monotheism helps to foster the idea that there are rules to the universe...

And I'm saying there's no evidence of this, since monotheistic faiths are based around the idea of supernatural beings who can do whatever they please.

 

[Adamanteus]

So would this lead to the fabled "Byzantine steampunk" scenario?

Look at it this way. In the 7th century AD, the Byzantines invented Greek Fire, so it's not beyond them to be innovative. Just imagine Byzantine sailless steamships firing flammable liquid at Arab wooden fleets.

 

[DominusNovus]

Look at it this way. In the 7th century AD, the Byzantines invented Greek Fire, so it's not beyond them to be innovative. Just imagine Byzantine sailless steamships firing flammable liquid at Arab wooden fleets.

Actually, Greek fire was invented by some Syrian Arab, IIRC.