What was the change in the perspective Europeans had of the world and why?

The perspective of Europeans shifted dramatically during the Age of Exploration, particularly from the 15th to the 17th centuries, as they began to view the world as a vast, interconnected space ripe for discovery and conquest. This change was driven by advancements in navigation, technology, and the desire for trade, particularly in spices and precious metals. The encounter with diverse cultures and the expansion of empires fostered a more global worldview, though it was often accompanied by a sense of superiority that justified colonialism and exploitation. This new perspective laid the groundwork for modern globalization and the complex relationships between different regions of the world.