Francis Bacon, a pivotal figure in shaping modern scientific approaches, is celebrated for employing English in his philosophical works, notably with "Advancement of Learning." His "Essayes," acclaimed for their astute observations, remain a cornerstone of essay writing. Both his innovative thinking and his adept political maneuvers have left a lasting imprint on history.

Early Life

Born on January 22, 1561, at York House, London, Francis Bacon was the son of Sir Nicholas Bacon, England's Lord Keeper of the Seal, and Lady Ann Cooke, who had familial ties to the aristocracy through her sister. In 1573, at just twelve years old, Bacon entered Trinity College, Cambridge. He left in 1576 to pursue a legal career at Gray’s Inn, echoing his father’s professional path.

Bacon briefly visited the French court with Sir Amias Paulet from 1576 to 1579, returning to Gray's Inn after his father’s death. He was called to the bar in 1582 and swiftly moved into politics, being elected to Parliament in 1584. Despite early advancements, Bacon's career plateaued during Elizabeth I's reign due to political missteps and rivals hampering his progress.

In 1589, Bacon was appointed as Queen’s Counsel, but his career was derailed in 1593 following a contentious parliamentary debate. His association with the Earl of Essex further complicated his political aspirations, culminating in his role in prosecuting Essex after a failed rebellion in 1601.

Bacon's publication of An Advertisement Touching the Controversies of the Church of England in 1589 had initially boosted his political standing. However, his subsequent works did not yield similar professional benefits. Despite a period of stunted political advancement, he continued to lobby for higher positions, often employing patronage and favoritism.

Paintings of Bacon depict him as a dignified statesman, reflecting the reserved yet sensitive nature described by his chaplain and secretary, William Rawley. At forty-five, he married Alice Barnham, with whom he had no children, and continued to navigate his complex political and literary life.

Life’s Work

During Elizabeth I’s reign, Bacon focused on writing, producing the first ten of his "Essayes" in 1597, with later editions expanding to fifty-eight essays. These works showcased his pragmatic view of humanity and governance, devoid of idealistic zeal, and offered sharp political insights, as seen in essays like “On Dissimulation” and “On Plantations.”

The "Advancement of Learning" marked a turning point, laying the groundwork for a new scientific methodology free from religious allegory and classical philosophy. His realistic perspective catalyzed a shift towards empirical investigation.

With James I's accession, Bacon’s fortunes improved, climbing from knighthood in 1603 to Lord Chancellor and Viscount St. Albans by 1621. His success during James I’s reign enabled him to advance his ambitious scholarly projects.

Bacon's unfinished masterpiece, "The Great Instauration," sought to reorganize human knowledge through six planned works. Aimed at transforming scientific thought, his "Novum Organum" proposed a novel logic for understanding the natural world, emphasizing systematic experimentation and observation.

His career climaxed with significant judicial roles, yet an accusation of bribery in 1621 led to his resignation and brief imprisonment. Despite his attempts to regain favor, he died in 1626 without full royal pardon.

Influence

Bacon’s fall from grace mirrored that of his intellectual model, Seneca, but his legacy as an innovator in scientific thinking remains unblemished. His forward-thinking approach laid the foundation for modern scientific inquiry.

In his unfinished "New Atlantis," published posthumously in 1627, Bacon argued for the harmony between scientific exploration and Christian doctrine. He posited that the natural world should be explored for humanity's benefit and God’s glory, echoing ancient Hebrew philosophy.

Bacon’s vision for an institution dedicated to scientific research materialized with the establishment of the British Royal Society and the British Museum, fulfilling his dream of centralized knowledge-sharing hubs.

Additional Reading

For further exploration of Bacon's life and philosophy, consider the following works:

• Francis Bacon: His Career and His Thought by Fulton H. Anderson delves into Bacon’s public life and philosophical connection to politics, although its attempts to relate his ideas to modern issues falter.
• Francis Bacon: The Temper of a Man by Catherine Drinker Bowen offers an engaging, historically accurate portrayal of Bacon, though it critiques his aloofness toward women.
• R. W. Church’s Bacon maintains a precise and accessible narrative that highlights Bacon’s personality.
• Benjamin Farrington’s The Philosophy of Francis Bacon translates his lesser-known Latin works and elaborates on his philosophical ideas.
• Lisa Jardine’s Francis Bacon: Discovery and the Art of Discourse examines sixteenth-century dialectical methods and provides a thorough analysis of Bacon's theoretical contributions.
• Francis Bacon Revisited by William A. Sessions presents a detailed biography, aligning his writings with his life events, with a focus on "New Atlantis."
• James Stephens’ Francis Bacon and the Style of Science investigates Bacon's philosophy of communication and his psychological approach to discovery.
• Anthony F. C. Wallace’s The Social Context of Innovation discusses Bacon’s influence on the Industrial Revolution through the lens of "New Atlantis."
• Howard B. White’s Peace Among the Willows contemplates Bacon's hope for peace through scientific advancement.

Bibliography updated by Glenn L. Swygart