Aspects of Enlightenment in Work “The New Organon” of Francis Bacon

Abstract

Francis Bacon is one of the typical representatives of Western European materialism as well as among the most important and influential philosophers who made substantial contributions towards natural philosophy and the field of scientific methodology in the early modern era. Known as an earlier philosopher whose work influenced the Age of Enlightenment (Sootin, 1955), he had enlightenment thoughts. Being attracted by these interesting ones, this paper analyzes his work “The New Organon”, focusing on three prominent aspects of enlightenment, including views on errors in human mind, progressive viewpoints on human sense and reason, and standpoints of doubt in science and scientific discovery. Bacon’s ideas of doubt in science and scientific discovery were especially enlightening to the majority of people in his day, who had adopted previous philosophies with an attitude of no doubt. This aspect has held an enlightening meaning in all times because doubt in science and scientific discovery are two indispensable qualities of a true scientist.