Of Studies DQ
Of Studies – Sir Francis Bacon [1561-1626]
DQ – 6 Marks
Delve Deep
Q1. What are the three main reasons Bacon gives for studying, and how does he explain each reason? (3+3)
In his essay ‘Of Studies’ Bacon specifies three main reasons for studying which are firstly studies are for delight, secondly for ornament, and lastly for ability.
(I) For Delight: Studying provides a private escape, a form of relaxation and enjoyment.
(II) For Ornament: Studying enhances a person’s ability to converse and communicate effectively, making them more eloquent and learned in social settings.
(III) For Ability: Studying helps develop a person’s judgment and capacity to handle business and life’s challenges.
Q2. What does Bacon mean when he says that too much studying can lead to laziness? Why is it important to find a balance between study and practical experience? (2+4)
When Bacon says that too much studying can lead to laziness, he means that excessive studying can lead to a person becoming passive and inactive, preferring to stay in their study rather than engaging in real-world activities.
It is important to find a balance because while study provides theoretical knowledge and a foundation for understanding, practical experience is necessary to apply that knowledge and to develop wisdom and a practical understanding of the world.
Q3. What does Bacon say about the importance of reading, discussing and writing for personal development and how do these activities help shape a person’s skills? (4+2)
Bacon in his essay ‘Of Studies’ highlights the importance of reading, discussing, and writing as key activities for personal development.
These activities help shape a person’s skills in the following ways: reading, discussing and writing.
(I) Reading makes a person knowledgeable and well-rounded.
(II) Discussing (or conference) makes a person quick-witted and ready to respond.
(III) Writing makes a person precise and accurate in their thoughts and communication.
Q4. What does Bacon mean when he says that everyone has weaknesses in their thinking that can be improved through study and how can education help in this process? (3+3)
Bacon means that every person has inherent flaws or biases in their way of thinking. He suggests that education, through the right kind of study, can act as a remedy for these mental weaknesses.
Just as physical exercises can correct physical ailments, different subjects can correct different intellectual flaws. For example, studying mathematics can help a person who is not good at paying attention to details, while studying law can help a person who is not good at arguing.
