“Lies are sufficient to breed opinion, and opinion brings on substance.”
- 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
“Lies are sufficient to breed opinion, and opinion brings on substance.”
Explanation
In this quote, Francis Bacon explores the powerful role of falsehoods and misinformation in shaping public opinion and, ultimately, reality. Bacon argues that even falsehoods, when repeated enough, can take root in the collective consciousness and lead to the formation of opinions. These opinions, in turn, can have a tangible impact, becoming substance or reality in society through actions, decisions, or policies that are based on misconceptions. This highlights the danger of misinformation and the ease with which public perception can be influenced, regardless of the truth.
Bacon, writing in the early modern period, was living through a time of political and social upheaval, where propaganda, rumors, and distorted narratives were often used to manipulate public opinion. His statement is a reflection of the growing awareness that perception can shape the social and political landscape, even if those perceptions are based on lies. Bacon’s emphasis on the influence of opinion suggests a recognition that rhetoric and communication play significant roles in shaping reality, not just facts or evidence.
In the modern world, this quote is particularly relevant in an era of social media, political manipulation, and fake news. In today’s society, misinformation spreads rapidly, often shaping public opinion on major issues despite the lack of factual accuracy. For instance, political campaigns and media outlets may promote distorted or false narratives to sway public opinion, influencing elections and policies. Bacon’s insight into how opinion can create substance reminds us of the power of perception and the importance of critically examining the sources and truthfulness of the information we receive.
