“Anger is certainly a kind of baseness, as it appears well in the weakness of those subjects in whom it reigns: children, women, old folks, sick folks.”
- 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
Quote
“Anger is certainly a kind of baseness, as it appears well in the weakness of those subjects in whom it reigns: children, women, old folks, sick folks.”
Explanation
In this quote, Francis Bacon presents anger as a weakness or flaw that is particularly evident in individuals who are vulnerable due to age, gender, or health. Bacon suggests that anger, when it dominates a person, reveals a lack of self-control and maturity. By associating anger with those who are typically seen as less able to manage their emotions or circumstances—children, women, the elderly, and the sick—Bacon implies that anger diminishes a person’s strength of character and reflects their fragility. He is emphasizing the idea that individuals who are insecure or vulnerable are more likely to exhibit anger as a response to their circumstances.
Bacon was writing in the early modern period, a time when social norms and expectations were heavily influenced by traditional gender roles and ideas of virtue and self-discipline. Anger was often viewed as a failure of reason, a loss of control that tarnished a person’s dignity and moral standing. During this time, the ability to manage one’s emotions was considered a hallmark of civilized society, and anger was often viewed as a base or uncivilized emotion. His comment reflects the common view in Renaissance and early modern thought that certain groups, especially women and the elderly, were expected to exhibit greater emotional restraint and composure.
In modern times, the quote may be seen as problematic or even misogynistic, as it reflects outdated and stereotypical views about gender and age. Today, we recognize that anger is a universal emotion that can affect anyone, regardless of gender, age, or health. Furthermore, anger can be a justifiable and empowering response in certain contexts, such as when addressing social injustice or personal boundaries. While Bacon’s assertion may have reflected social norms of his time, modern psychology and social studies emphasize the complexity of emotions, and the importance of emotional intelligence and self-regulation rather than simply viewing anger as a sign of weakness.
