31. How should books of less importance be approached?

A. Read thoroughly

B. Skimmed or read in extracts

C. Ignored entirely

D. Studied in depth

Answer: B (Skimmed or read in extracts)

Explanation: Bacon suggests that not all books require thorough reading. Lesser books can be skimmed or read in extracts to save time and focus on more significant texts. This selective approach allows readers to gather essential information without over-investing in material that lacks depth or relevance, emphasizing efficient use of one’s time.

32. According to Bacon, why should a man study mathematics?

A. To enhance creativity

B. To train the wandering mind

C. To strengthen memory

D. To improve communication skills

Answer: B (To train the wandering mind)

Explanation: Mathematics, according to Bacon, disciplines the mind by requiring logical and sequential thinking. A wandering mind must stay focused on calculations and demonstrations, as any lapse demands starting over. This mental rigor trains individuals to concentrate and enhances their ability to approach problems systematically.

33. What does Bacon mean by “experience perfects studies”?

A. Experience is unnecessary for studies

B. Practical application enhances theoretical knowledge

C. Experience is more important than studies

D. Studies are irrelevant without experience

Answer: B (Practical application enhances theoretical knowledge)

Explanation: Bacon argues that studies provide theoretical knowledge, but real-world application through experience refines it. Experience bridges the gap between abstract principles and practical realities, enabling individuals to adapt learned concepts effectively to specific situations. This symbiosis enriches both intellect and action.

34. What does Bacon suggest for a person who reads little?

A. They must engage in debates

B. They must appear knowledgeable through cunning

C. They must study harder

D. They must write more

Answer: B (They must appear knowledgeable through cunning)

Explanation: Bacon points out that individuals who read little lack the breadth of knowledge gained from extensive reading. To compensate, they must rely on cunning and wit to seem knowledgeable. This includes using cleverness to mask their ignorance and maneuver through conversations or decisions requiring intellectual input.

35. Which of these is NOT mentioned as a benefit of studies by Bacon?

A. Ornament

B. Wealth

C. Delight

D. Ability

Answer: B (Wealth)

Explanation: Bacon highlights three benefits of studies: delight, ornament, and ability. These relate to personal enjoyment, improved communication, and professional skill development, respectively. Wealth is not mentioned as a direct outcome of studies, as Bacon focuses on intellectual and moral growth rather than material gain.

36. What does the phrase “Abeunt studia in mores” mean?

A. Studies influence character and behavior

B. Studies lead to debates

C. Studies enhance wealth

D. Studies create laziness

Answer: A (Studies influence character and behavior)

Explanation: The Latin phrase translates to “Studies pass into and influence manners.” Bacon suggests that what we study shapes our character and conduct. The knowledge and habits cultivated through learning become ingrained in our behavior, impacting how we think, act, and interact with the world around us.

37. What does Bacon suggest about reading curiously?

A. It is essential for all books

B. It should be avoided for less important books

C. It is the key to learning

D. It creates intelligence

Answer: B (It should be avoided for less important books)

Explanation: Bacon advises against investing too much curiosity or attention in lesser books. For such texts, extracts or summaries suffice. Excessive focus on trivial material detracts from time better spent on meaningful and in-depth study. This advice reflects Bacon’s pragmatic approach to prioritizing intellectual resources.

38. Why does Bacon emphasize writing?

A. To gain fame

B. To become precise and exact

C. To practice creativity

D. To improve memory

Answer: B (To become precise and exact)

Explanation: Bacon underscores writing as a tool for precision and clarity. Writing forces individuals to organize their thoughts systematically and communicate effectively. It fosters exactness by requiring careful articulation of ideas, making it a key practice for intellectual discipline and sharpening one’s reasoning.

39. What is Bacon’s advice about “reading by deputy”?

A. It is better than reading personally

B. It is only suitable for lesser books

C. It should be avoided entirely

D. It leads to greater knowledge

Answer: B (It is only suitable for lesser books)

Explanation: Bacon permits “reading by deputy” (using summaries or extracts prepared by others) only for less significant books. This method is useful for saving time on trivial material but unsuitable for important texts requiring direct and thoughtful engagement. Bacon’s stance encourages critical reading for meaningful works.

40. What does Bacon mean by “logic and rhetoric make men able to contend”?

A. They improve physical strength

B. They make men skilled in debate and argument

C. They create moral thinkers

D. They help men in poetry

Answer: B (They make men skilled in debate and argument)

Explanation: Bacon identifies logic and rhetoric as essential tools for effective argumentation and persuasion. Logic trains individuals to reason systematically, while rhetoric enhances their ability to communicate persuasively. Together, they prepare individuals to engage in intellectual and verbal contention with confidence and skill.