Which do you think contributed the most to advances in learning that occurred during Renaissance-writing common language of a people or inventing printing press?

It's difficult to definitively say which contributed most to the advances in learning during the Renaissance - the invention of the printing press or the use of a common language. Both were crucial and intertwined. Here's why:

The Printing Press:

* Mass Production of Books: This allowed knowledge to spread rapidly and cheaply. Before, books were painstakingly copied by hand, making them rare and expensive. The printing press democratized access to information, putting it in the hands of more people.

* Standardization of Language: Printing required a standardized language, which in turn, helped unify vernacular languages and increase literacy. This facilitated communication and the sharing of ideas.

* Dissemination of Ideas: The printing press enabled the rapid spread of scientific discoveries, religious texts, and philosophical ideas across Europe. It fueled intellectual debates and advancements.

Common Language:

* Accessibility: A common language made written material accessible to a wider audience. This facilitated learning and knowledge sharing within a society.

* Unified Identity: A common language contributed to a sense of national identity and cultural unity, fostering intellectual exchange and collaboration.

* Literary Flourishing: A common language allowed for the development of rich and diverse literature, which in turn, fueled cultural and intellectual growth.

Interconnectedness:

It's crucial to note that these two factors were not isolated. The printing press contributed to standardizing languages, and a common language was necessary for the printing press to have its full impact.

Conclusion:

While both were essential, the printing press might be seen as having a slightly more significant impact. It revolutionized the production and distribution of knowledge, allowing for a faster and wider dissemination of ideas. It was the catalyst for a massive surge in literacy and intellectual exploration. However, the development and standardization of vernacular languages paved the way for this revolution, making the printing press's impact even more potent. Ultimately, both played crucial roles in the Renaissance intellectual explosion.