ABSTRACT

The work of Francis Bacon reflected both faith in the promise of knowledge and an attempt to justify its pursuit in light of traditional opposition. Appointed to serve the English crown as an ambassador and legal advisor, Bacon soon turned his attention to philosophical questions and, along with others of his time, developed a method of experiment and induction that suggested a new relationship between knowing and doing. Building on that framework, Bacon’s The Advancement of Learning laid out a plan for proper study and a defense of the value of disciplined inquiry. Stressing the virtues of knowledge for the “improvement of man’s estate,” Bacon argued that the scholar should strive for universality of conclusions, mature deliberation, and a suspension of rash judgement until the facts themselves are proven secure. In this sense, Bacon’s work stands as an invitation for all possessing reason to learn from their own experiences, perfect themselves, and enjoy the possibility of progress.