NOVUM ORGANUM 313 



(as we consider it), for the sake of extinguishing and removing 

 contradiction and irritation of mind, to leave the honor and rev- 

 erence due to the ancients untouched and undiminished, so that 

 \ve can perform our intended work, and yet enjoy the benefit 

 of our respectful moderation. For if we should profess to offer 

 something better than the ancients, and yet should pursue the 

 same course as they have done, we could never, by any artifice, 

 contrive to avoid the imputation of having engaged in a contest 

 or rivalry as to our respective wits, excellencies, or talents ; 

 which, though neither inadmissible or new (for why should we 

 not blame and point out anything that is imperfectly discovered 

 or laid down by them, of our own right, a right common to all), 

 yet however just and allowable, would perhaps be scarcely an 

 equal match, on account of the disproportion of our strength. 

 But since our present plan leads up to open an entirely different 

 course to the understanding, and one unattempted and un- 

 known to them, the case is altered. There is an end to party 

 zeal, and we only take upon ourselves the character of a guide, 

 which requires a moderate share of authority and good fortune, 

 rather than talents and excellence. The first admonition re- 

 lates to persons, the next to things. 



We make no attempt to disturb tire system of philosophy that 

 now prevails, or any other which may or will exist, either more 

 correct or more complete. For we deny not that the received 

 system of philosophy, and others of a similar nature, encourage 

 discussion, embellish harangues, are employed, and are of ser- 

 vice in the duties of the professor, and the affairs of civil life. 

 Nay, we openly express and declare that the philosophy we 

 offer will not be very useful in such respects. It is not obvi- 

 ous, nor to be understood in a cursory view, nor does it flatter 

 the mind in its preconceived notions, nor will it descend to the 

 level of the generality of mankind unless by its advantages and 

 effects. 



Let there exist, then (and may it be of advantage to both), 

 two sources, and two distributions of learning, and in like man- 

 ner two tribes, and as it were kindred families of contemplators 

 or philosophers, without any hostility or alienation between 

 them ; but rather allied and united by mutual assistance. Let 

 there be, in short, one method of cultivating the sciences, and 

 another of discovering them. And as for those who prefer and 

 more readily receive the former, on account of their haste or 

 from motives arising from their ordinary life, or because they 

 are unable from weakness of mind to comprehend and em- 

 brace the other (which must necessarily be the case with by 

 far the greater number), let us wish that they may prosper as 

 they desire in their undertakincr, and attain what they pursue. 

 But if any individual desire, and is anxious not merely to ad- 



