Of Studies – Francis Bacon – Summary

 

Of Studies – Francis Bacon – Summary

About the Author

Francis Bacon was a renowned philosopher, statesman, and essayist. He belonged to the Elizabethan Age and is considered one of the pioneers of the English essay.

About the Essay – Of Studies

In this essay, Bacon discusses the importance of studying books, highlighting their numerous benefits. In essence, reading enriches the mind, enhances wisdom, and serves as an intellectual exercise. Beyond these fundamental advantages, Bacon explores several key aspects of reading and studying. Let’s examine his insights in detail.

Summary in Detail

At the beginning of the essay, Bacon explains that studying books serves three primary purposes: delight, ornamentation, and ability. Books provide pleasure in leisure time, enhance one’s language and conversational skills, and sharpen the intellect, allowing individuals to analyze problems and make better decisions. Thus, studies offer enjoyment, knowledge, and intellectual refinement.

However, Bacon warns against excessive indulgence in reading. Over-immersion in books can lead to laziness, overuse of bookish knowledge in conversation (which may irritate others), and an inclination to judge people based on acquired learning. He criticizes scholars who display their knowledge in a showy manner, calling it a mere whim.

Bacon also emphasizes the need for practical application of knowledge. He compares natural talents to wild plants that require pruning. Just as plants need careful trimming to grow in an orderly manner, human abilities require training and discipline. Without proper guidance, natural talents may go to waste, which is often seen in rural areas and underprivileged sections of society.

Further, Bacon observes that different people have varied attitudes toward learning:

• Cunning individuals dismiss wisdom, believing their craftiness surpasses acquired knowledge.
• Simple people admire books without questioning their contents.
• Wise individuals use knowledge effectively for practical purposes.

He advises readers to be discerning while reading because books reflect the personal perspectives of their authors. Thus, one must engage with books critically rather than accepting everything at face value.

Another famous idea Bacon presents is that different books should be approached in different ways:

“Some books are to be tasted, others to be swallowed, and some few to be chewed and digested.”

By this, he means that:

• Some books should be read lightly or in parts.
• Others can be read quickly for general understanding.
• A select few should be studied deeply with full attention and reflection.

Bacon also suggests that certain books need not be read in their original form; their summaries or extracts may suffice. Before choosing a book, he advises making a careful selection, preferably based on reviews, to ensure its worthiness.

Another notable quote from the essay is:

"Reading maketh a full man; conference a ready man; and writing an exact man."

This means that:

• Reading broadens knowledge.
• Discussion sharpens wit and quick thinking.
• Writing enhances precision and clarity of thought.

Bacon also discusses the transformative power of books. He claims that different disciplines cultivate different mental faculties:

• History makes a person wise.
• Poetry sharpens wit.
• Mathematics enhances precision.
• Science deepens understanding.
• Philosophy promotes depth and seriousness of thought.

Furthermore, Bacon asserts that books have curative effects on the mind. Just as physical exercise helps maintain bodily health, reading helps in overcoming intellectual weaknesses. For instance:

• Mathematics strengthens concentration.
• Law sharpens reasoning skills.
• Philosophy fosters depth of thought.
• Medieval philosophy helps those struggling with distinguishing subtle differences.
• Legal case studies aid those lacking reasoning skills.

Conclusion

Bacon’s Of Studies is a timeless essay that underscores the value of reading, the correct approach to studying books, and the necessity of applying knowledge wisely. He emphasizes that true learning is not about superficial display but about deep comprehension and practical wisdom that contribute to personal and societal betterment.