Summary: "Of Studies" by Frances Bacon

Summary: Of Studies by Francis Bacon In his essay entitled Of Studies, Francis Bacon examines the benefits and effects of studies, maintaining that when studies are balanced by experience, diverse studies may help counteract personal imperfections. Bacon proposes that study may be done for three purposes: for one’s own entertainment, such as reading book on a favorite author, to impress others and bring attention to oneself, such as by touting one’s academic accomplishments in hopes of gaining a pretty girl’s admiration, or to gain competence and proficiency, an example would be by studying for an upcoming exam. Too much study may be considered a downfall, as the individual studying may be considered by others to be self-indulgent or even lazy if they appear to be studying and not much else. Just to do what books tell you to do and nothing else is characteristic of an academic/bookish individual. Studying alone is insufficient; learning must also be accompanied by real life experience, as they are counter-balances of one another. Abilities are strengthened and capabilities balanced by studies. Cunning individuals regard studies with contempt because concepts learned from books might thwart their devious goals; unpretentious individuals admire studies because they themselves may have had little opportunity for study, and an astute individual makes good use of studies and knowledge gained by studying as a tool to glean more information. Study and take time to meditate on the information learned rather than taking what is learned as gospel, or arguing about the information, even discussing it. Three types of literature that are widely available include that which is be read in parts and not spent a lot of time on, that which is to be read through and enjoyed, and that which is to be read thoroughly with attention and sincerity. Studying makes people complete, discussion makes a prepared person, and writing makes an exact person by communicating well. Studies are