“Reading maketh a full man; conference a ready man; and writing an exact man.”
- 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
“Reading maketh a full man; conference a ready man; and writing an exact man.”
Explanation
In this quote, Francis Bacon outlines the three key activities that contribute to a well-rounded and capable individual: reading, discussion (conference), and writing. According to Bacon, reading allows a person to accumulate knowledge and ideas, filling their mind and making them a “full” or well-informed individual. Conference, or conversation and discussion with others, sharpens a person’s ability to express ideas clearly and respond quickly—making one a “ready” individual. Finally, writing serves as a tool for achieving precision and clarity in thought, helping an individual become “exact” in their reasoning and communication. Bacon suggests that these activities work together to create a person who is not only knowledgeable, but also articulate and precise in both thought and action.
Bacon, writing during the Renaissance period, was deeply influenced by the intellectual movement that emphasized the pursuit of knowledge and the development of critical thinking. At a time when the printing press was making books more widely available, Bacon saw reading as an essential means of acquiring the vast amounts of information needed for personal and intellectual growth. Bacon’s reference to conference highlights the growing value placed on dialogue and debate in the Renaissance, where public discourse and conversation were seen as important avenues for refining ideas. Meanwhile, writing, particularly through Bacon’s own works, was seen as the ultimate tool for crystallizing and refining one’s thoughts, ensuring that they were expressed with accuracy and clarity.
In modern times, this quote remains highly relevant, especially in the context of education, professional development, and personal growth. Today, the act of reading continues to be central to knowledge acquisition, while discussions and collaborations are key to developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills in various fields. Additionally, writing remains a critical skill for effective communication and clarifying complex ideas. Whether in the form of academic writing, business communication, or creative expression, writing enables individuals to refine their ideas and express them with precision. Bacon’s quote underscores the idea that a combination of knowledge, communication, and critical thinking is essential for personal mastery and success in the modern world.
