400 years ago, philosopher Blaise Pascal was one of the first to grapple with the role of faith in an age of science and reason

Blaise Pascal's ideas have led to some of the world's most important inventions. API/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images

In an apostolic letter released on June 19, 2023, Pope Francis praised the “brilliant and inquisitive mind” of the influential French philosopher Blaise Pascal, born on that date 400 years ago.

When Pascal lived, at the height of the 17th century’s scientific revolution, rapid advances were taking place in all areas of science. Pascal’s significant accomplishments included one of the first calculating machines, the world’s first public transport system and various mathematical models, among others.