The publication in 1632 of Galileo's Dialogue on the Two Chief World Systems, Ptolemaic and Copernicanmarked a crucial moment in the 'scientific revolution' and the origin of modern science. The Dialoguecontains Galileo's synthesis of astronomy, physics, and methodology, and its conclusions led Galileo to stand trial for denying the scientific authority of Scripture. For some this marked the start of the religion vs science debate which continues to this day. In this guidebook, Maurice Finocchiaro introduces and assesses: The key arguments and analysis that Galileo presents on both sides of the 'dialogue' Galileo's unique style of analysis, critical reasoning and rhetoric The lasting significance of the Dialogueand the Galileo affair