Final answer:
The most logical next step in the progression related to the impact of the printing press on society is that the Bible was printed in vernacular languages, leading to greater criticism of the church. This facilitated independent interpretation of scriptures and enabled humanism and skepticism, contributing to the Protestant Reformation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The logical next step in the progression, considering the impact of the printing press and its role in the spread of the vernacular Bible, would likely be A. The Bible was printed in vernacular languages leading to greater criticism of the church. Johannes Gutenberg's invention of the printing press and the subsequent translation of the Bible into vernacular languages dramatically increased access to religious texts. This accessibility allowed laypeople to interpret the scriptures independently of the Church, fostering an environment ripe for criticism and challenging its authority.
Luther's translation of the Bible into German and his use of the printing press to publish his works underscored the profound effect printing had on religion and society. The spread of new knowledge, through readily available printed materials, did indeed encourage humanism and skepticism, as questions about the world and the church's teachings surfaced. The Protestant Reformation, spurred by these factors, capitalized on print media's popularity to disseminate its theology broadly and effectively.
In summary, the translation and printing of the Bible in the vernacular were fundamental to the progression of events that led to increased literacy, the spread of humanist philosophy, and the eventual challenge to the Catholic Church's authority.