BOOK iJ] APHORISMS. 44^*^ 



iome measure to the method of discovering the quahty and con- 

 dition of the subject matter of investigation. 



CXXVIII. Let none even doubt whether we are anxious to 

 destroy and demohsh the philosophy, arts, and sciences, which 

 are now in use. On the contrary, we readily cherish their 

 practice, cultivation, and honour; for we by no means interfere 

 to prevent the prevalent system from encouraging discussion, 

 adorning discourses, or being employed serviceably in the chair 

 of the professor or the practice of common life, and being taken, 

 in short, by general consent as current coin. iS'ay, we plainly 

 declare, that the system we ofiier will not be very suitable for 

 such purposes, not being easily adapted to vulgar apprehensions, 

 except by effects and works. To show our sincerity in professing 

 our regard and friendly disposition towards the received sciences, 

 we can refer to the evidence of our published writings (especially 

 our books on the Advancement of Learning). We will not, 

 therefore, endeavour to evince it any further by words ; but 

 content ourselves with steadily and professedly premising, that 

 no great progress can be made by the present methods in the 

 theory or contemplation of science, and that they cannot be made 

 to produce any very abundant effects. 



CXXIX. It remains for us to say a few words on the excel- 

 lence of our proposed end. If we had done so before, we might 

 have appeared merely to express our wishes, but now that wc 

 have excited hope and removed prejudices, it will perhaps have 

 greater weight. Had we performed and completely accomplished 

 the whole, without frequently calling in others to assist in our 

 labours, we should then have refrained from saying any more, 

 lest we should be thought to extol our own deserts. Since, 

 however, the industry of others must be quickened, and their 

 courage roused and inflamed, it is right to recall some points to 

 their memory. 



First, then, the introduction of great inventions appears one 

 of the most distinguished of human actions, and the ancients so 

 considered it; for they assigned divine honours to the authors 

 of inventions, but only heroic honours to those who displayed 

 civil merit (such as the founders of cities and empires, legislators, 

 the deliverers of their country from lasting misfortunes, the 

 quellers of tyrants, and the like). And if any one rightly com- 

 pare them, he will find the judgment of antiquity to be correct; 

 for the benefits derived from inventions may extend to mankind 

 in general, but civil benefits to particular spots alone ; the latter, 

 moreover, last but for a time, the former for ever. Civil refor- 

 mation seldom is carried on without violence and confusion, 

 v.]ii]st inventions are a blessing and a benefit without iiijurin;^ oi 

 afflicting any. 



