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Roger Bacon

Philosopher · Mathematician · theologian · Inventor · Writer

Years: 1220–1292
Birthplace: United Kingdom
Birth polity: Kingdom of England
Era: Medieval
Field: Science
Occupations: Philosopher · Mathematician · theologian · Inventor · Writer

A medieval European philosopher and theologian who advocated the importance of mathematics and empirical observation. This shows that there was an interest in the study of nature within Scholasticism. It can be read as a prehistory for thinking about the future image of experimental science.

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Historical context

Places

Oxford
Education
Paris
Education

Works & achievements

Opus Majus
1267
Book

Origins

Origins map

Birth countryAssociated countries

Birth country: United Kingdom
Associated countries: France

Map: Natural Earth (PD)

Biography

Early life

Born in England, he studied at Oxford and Paris. While active as a Franciscan, he turned his attention to Aristotelian philosophy, optics, and mathematics.

Achievements

In his ``Great Works,'' he presented an academic vision that valued language, mathematics, and experimental knowledge. Although it was not exactly modern science, it attracted the attention of later generations for its emphasis on observation and calculation.

Character & anecdotes

He is known as the ``Wonderful Doctor,'' and there are many legends surrounding his knowledge of gunpowder and optics. Although the real story needs to be viewed more carefully than the legend, it does illustrate the wide range of interests of medieval intellectuals.

Historical Impact

When you study Roger Bacon, you realize that medieval European scholarship was not limited to religion alone, but also incorporated knowledge derived from ancient times and Islam and the study of nature. It will help you understand the history before the scientific revolution.