Alchemist Quote by Francis Bacon
“The study of nature with a view to works is engaged in by the mechanic, the mathematician, the physician, the alchemist, and the magician; but by all as things now are with slight endeavour and scanty success.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Novum Organum, 1620
Human attempts to control nature are limited by modest effort and poor results across disciplines.
In simple terms: Limited effort yields modest success in mastering nature.
Key Takeaway
Increase dedication and resources for scientific work.
Themes
science
human ambition
limitations
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
analytical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- research labs
- medical practice
- engineering projects
- philosophical inquiry
Key Concepts
methodology
interdisciplinary research
alchemy
magical thinking
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we better allocate effort to scientific pursuits?
- What role does interdisciplinary collaboration play?
A Different Perspective
Even with effort, unpredictable complexity can thwart results.
