New Atlantis

Mehr zum Buch

Francis Bacon's travel narrative, likely written in 1623 and published in 1627, is regarded as one of the earliest works of scientific utopian fiction. Its significance is comparable to that of Thomas More and Tommaso Campanella. Bacon inspired many thinkers, including Hobbes, Newton, and Jefferson. The story revolves around an academy focused on creating works for the benefit of humanity. Set in Bacon's time, it reinterprets Plato's vision of Atlantis while integrating classical, biblical, and Christian elements. The utopian society on the island of Bensalem lives in peace and charity, with Bacon's idea of the Great Renewal presented through symbolism. The Father of Solomon's House expresses the institution's goal of understanding the causes of things and expanding knowledge. The narrative offers a scientific foundation for an ideal legal system overseen by a court. Despite its influence on the establishment of scientific institutions, many of Bacon's ideas were not embraced, often due to poor translation and misunderstanding of his works. Today, modern science is frequently associated with political interference and materialism, contrasting with Bacon's emphasis on moral foundations and benevolent intent as essential for scientific advancement.