“People usually think according to their inclinations, speak according to their learning and ingrained opinions, but generally act according to custom.”
- January 22, 1561 – April 9, 1626
- Born in England
- Philosopher, theologian, jurist, politician, aristocrat
- Proposed the “inductive method” that laid the foundations of modern science, and influenced later generations as the founder of British empiricism
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Quote
“People usually think according to their inclinations, speak according to their learning and ingrained opinions, but generally act according to custom.”
Explanation
In this quote, Francis Bacon reflects on the discrepancy between thought, speech, and action in human behavior. He observes that while individuals may think based on their personal inclinations or preferences, and speak based on their acquired knowledge or established beliefs, their actions are often more influenced by custom or social norms. This suggests that people are shaped not just by their personal desires or intellectual pursuits, but also by the external pressures and traditions that govern their behavior. Bacon’s insight highlights the complexity of human nature, where external influences often override personal intentions or beliefs.
During Bacon’s time, the Renaissance was characterized by a growing interest in individualism and rationality, yet many social structures still adhered to long-standing traditions and customs. Bacon was keenly aware of how people’s behavior could be swayed by these societal forces, often leading them to act in ways that were not entirely aligned with their personal beliefs or rational understanding. In his era, much of society was still rooted in hierarchical structures and traditional customs that dictated how individuals should behave, regardless of their individual thoughts or opinions.
In today’s world, this observation remains relevant, especially in understanding the tension between personal values and social conformity. People often publicly express opinions that reflect their personal knowledge or ideology, but may still follow societal norms in their actions due to pressures from culture, family, or workplace. For example, someone may privately believe in sustainability but still engage in wasteful behaviors due to societal habits or lack of accessibility to alternatives. Bacon’s quote serves as a reminder of how habit and tradition often have a more immediate influence on behavior than logic or personal belief, illustrating the complexity of human nature in both historical and modern contexts.
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