For Bacon "knowledge was power". Knowledge should be of practical value, rather than mere theoretical speculation. Knowledge should aim to better the conditions of human life. Bacon was impressed by the developments of the printing press, gunpowder, and the magnetic compass, which he noticed had transformed certain aspects of society in important ways. Bacon believed that the method of science held the key to the emancipation of humanity. The neutrality of science should be free of bias from theological and moral speculation, despite the fact that its end serves a moral purpose. Bacon’s vision involved a mastery of nature that would allow us to control it for our own needs; so to contribute to the material well being and happiness of humanity....
