To effectively answer the question using the RACE strategy (Restate the question, Answer the question, Cite evidence, and Explain the evidence), we'll structure the response accordingly.
Restate the question: Greek scientists significantly transformed how people perceived and understood the natural world. Before their contributions, common Greeks had different explanations for natural events.
Answer the question: Greek scientists shifted the understanding of the natural world by introducing rational and systematic approaches, emphasizing observation and reasoning rather than mythological explanations. Common Greeks prior to this relied heavily on mythology and superstition to explain natural occurrences, attributing them to the actions of gods and supernatural forces.
Cite evidence: According to the American Institute of Physics, "the early Greek philosophers began to systematize knowledge about the natural world, moving away from mythological explanations and emphasizing natural laws and observations" (American Institute of Physics, 2018, www.aip.org).
Explain the evidence: This transition to a more scientific perspective allowed for explanations based on evidence and rational thought. For example, figures like Thales argued that water was the fundamental substance of all things, proposing natural rather than divine origins for phenomena. This shift laid the groundwork for future scientific inquiry, encouraging people to seek logical explanations and understanding of their environment rather than simply attributing events to the will of the gods.
In conclusion, the efforts of Greek scientists to explain natural phenomena through reason and observation marked a significant departure from earlier mythological interpretations, fundamentally changing humanity's approach to the world.