Francis Bacon

I would live to study, and not study to live.

I would live to study, and not study to live.

This is certain, that a man that studieth revenge keeps his wounds green, which otherwise would heal and do well.

This is certain, that a man that studieth revenge keeps his wounds green, which otherwise would heal and do well.

Houses are built to live in, not to look on; therefore, let use
be preferred before uniformity, except where read more

Houses are built to live in, not to look on; therefore, let use
be preferred before uniformity, except where both may be had.

A man is but what he knows.

A man is but what he knows.

The human understanding is no dry light, but receives infusion from the will and affections; which proceed sciences which may read more

The human understanding is no dry light, but receives infusion from the will and affections; which proceed sciences which may be called "sciences as one would." For what a man had rather were true he more readily believes. Therefore he rejects difficult things from impatience of research; sober things, because they narrow hope; the deeper things of nature, from superstition; the light of experience, from arrogance and pride; things not commonly believed, out of deference to the opinion of the vulgar. Numberless in short are the ways, and sometimes imperceptible, in which the affections color and infect the understanding.