“It is as hard and severe a thing to be a true politician as to be truly moral.”
- 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
“It is as hard and severe a thing to be a true politician as to be truly moral.”
Explanation
In this quote, Francis Bacon compares the difficulty of being a true politician to that of being morally upright. Bacon suggests that both roles require a significant amount of integrity, discipline, and self-awareness. Being a true politician—one who governs with wisdom, justice, and foresight—is just as challenging as being truly moral, where personal conduct is guided by ethical principles. Both positions demand the individual to navigate complex situations, make difficult decisions, and balance competing interests without compromising their core values. Bacon implies that politics, like morality, is not just about outward appearances or superficial behavior, but about the strength of character and principle in facing the challenges and compromises that come with both roles.
Bacon’s perspective reflects his time in politics, where he himself had to balance political pragmatism with moral philosophy. The Renaissance was a period of intellectual and political change, where thinkers like Bacon explored the complex relationships between ethics and governance. Bacon likely saw the political world as one in which integrity was often tested by the demands of power, but still necessary for true success and social harmony.
In modern times, this quote resonates with our understanding of ethical leadership and political integrity. The idea that politics requires more than just pragmatism—it also requires ethical commitment—remains highly relevant. Whether in government, business, or personal life, the challenge of making moral decisions while navigating complex systems is still an ongoing struggle. Bacon’s insight serves as a reminder that true politicians, like truly moral individuals, must navigate their duties with integrity and wisdom, despite the inherent difficulties they face.
