Previous
The illusions and false notions which have got a hold on men's intellects in the past and are now profoundly rooted in them, not only block their minds so that it is difficult for truth to gain access, but even when access has been granted and allowed, they will once again, in the very renewal of the sciences, offer resistance and do mischief unless men are forewarned and arm themselves against them as much as possible.

The "illusions" to which Bacon refers are the four idols. They obstruct truth and prevent a proper investigation of nature because they act at several different levels. Idols of the tribe affect sense perception and the basic building blocks of truth. Idols of the cave affect individuals in unique ways, producing a different obstacle in every investigator. Idols of the marketplace obstruct the communication of whatever truth is uncovered. Idols of the theater are the most sophisticated and dangerous; they represent untruths turned into philosophical systems that acquire great authority. This authority prevents the renewal of the sciences from succeeding. The only way to guard against this threat is to make a clean break with past explanations, and use Bacon's method of induction in order to prevent the illusions of language, education and sense-perception from interfering with the search for truth.

Previous section Important Quotes Explained Page 3

Popular pages: The New Organon

Take a Study Break