51. Francis Bacon is often referred to as the:
A. Father of Empiricism
B. Father of Modern Philosophy
C. Father of English Poetry
D. Father of Rhetoric
Answer: A (Father of Empiricism)
Explanation: Bacon earned the title “Father of Empiricism” due to his emphasis on inductive reasoning and systematic observation. He advocated for a method of knowledge based on empirical evidence and experimentation, laying the foundation for the scientific revolution. His work profoundly influenced scientific inquiry and modern empirical methodologies.
52. Which method of reasoning is Francis Bacon best known for?
A. Deductive reasoning
B. Inductive reasoning
C. Abductive reasoning
D. Intuitive reasoning
Answer: B (Inductive reasoning)
Explanation: Bacon championed inductive reasoning, which involves forming general conclusions based on specific observations. This approach contrasts with deductive reasoning, which starts with general principles to draw specific conclusions. Inductive reasoning, as advocated by Bacon, underpins modern scientific methods, emphasizing observation and evidence.
53. Francis Bacon’s contribution to the scientific method emphasized:
A. Observation and experimentation
B. Theoretical speculation
C. Divine inspiration
D. Deductive logic
Answer: A (Observation and experimentation)
Explanation: Bacon’s scientific philosophy prioritized observation and experimentation over theoretical speculation or divine inspiration. His method proposed gathering data through careful observation, conducting experiments, and deriving conclusions. This pragmatic approach revolutionized science, promoting evidence-based knowledge.
54. Which essay collection is Francis Bacon most famous for?
A. Essays: Moral and Political
B. The Advancement of Learning
C. The New Atlantis
D. Essays (1597, 1612, 1625)
Answer: D (Essays, 1597, 1612, 1625)
Explanation: Bacon’s “Essays” are among his most celebrated works. Published in three editions over his lifetime (1597, 1612, and 1625), these essays explore various topics, blending philosophical insights with practical wisdom. The essays, such as “Of Studies” and “Of Truth,” have had a lasting impact on English literature and intellectual thought.
55. In which year was Francis Bacon born?
A. 1551
B. 1561
C. 1571
D. 1581
Answer: B (1561)
Explanation: Francis Bacon was born on January 22, 1561, in London, England. His life spanned a transformative period in European history, marked by the Renaissance and the early stages of the scientific revolution. His contributions to philosophy, science, and literature reflect the intellectual vitality of his era.
56. Francis Bacon served as Attorney General and Lord Chancellor under which monarch?
A. Elizabeth I
B. Charles I
C. James I
D. Henry VIII
Answer: C (James I)
Explanation: Bacon held influential legal and political positions, including Attorney General (1613-1617) and Lord Chancellor (1618-1621), during the reign of King James I. His service under James I was significant for his influence on legal and political reforms, though his career ended in disgrace due to accusations of corruption.
57. What is the name of Francis Bacon’s utopian work?
A. Utopia
B. The New Atlantis
C. The City of the Sun
D. Leviathan
Answer: B (The New Atlantis)
Explanation: “The New Atlantis” is Bacon’s utopian novel that envisions a society guided by scientific discovery and rational thought. The fictional island of Bensalem represents Bacon’s ideal of an enlightened society where knowledge and innovation drive progress. This work reflects his vision for the integration of science and human advancement.
58. Bacon’s philosophical works argued primarily for the replacement of:
A. Aristotelianism with Scholasticism
B. Scholasticism with Empiricism
C. Empiricism with Rationalism
D. Rationalism with Idealism
Answer: B (Scholasticism with Empiricism)
Explanation: Bacon criticized Scholasticism, which relied heavily on Aristotelian logic and abstract reasoning, advocating instead for empiricism based on observation and experimentation. He sought to replace theoretical speculation with practical, evidence-based inquiry, reshaping the intellectual landscape of his time.
59. Which famous Latin phrase is associated with Francis Bacon’s philosophy?
A. Cogito, ergo sum
B. Scientia potentia est (Knowledge is power)
C. Tempus fugit
D. Ars longa, vita brevis
Answer: B (Scientia potentia est – Knowledge is power)
Explanation: The phrase “Scientia potentia est,” meaning “Knowledge is power,” encapsulates Bacon’s belief in the transformative potential of knowledge. He argued that understanding the natural world through science and learning could empower humanity to improve its condition, emphasizing the practical application of knowledge.
60. What led to Francis Bacon’s downfall in public life?
A. His criticism of the monarchy
B. Accusations of corruption
C. His association with controversial scientific theories
D. His writings against religion
Answer: B (Accusations of corruption)
Explanation: Bacon’s political career ended in disgrace when he was accused and convicted of accepting bribes during his tenure as Lord Chancellor. Despite his admission and subsequent punishment, including fines and imprisonment, Bacon remained an influential thinker, devoting the rest of his life to writing and intellectual pursuits.
