Quote by Francis Bacon, Essays, Of Studie
Read not to contradict and confute, not to believe and take for granted, not to find talk and discourse, but to weigh and consider. Some books are to be tasted, others to be swallowed, and some few to be chewed and digested: that is, some books are to be read only in parts, others to be read, but not curiously, and some few to be read wholly, and with diligence and attention.
Summary
This quote by Francis Bacon emphasizes the importance of reading critically and attentively. It advises against reading solely to argue or blindly accept, or for the sake of conversation. Instead, it encourages readers to approach books thoughtfully, evaluating and weighing their content. Bacon suggests that different books require different levels of engagement - some can be skimmed, others read partially, while only a select few should be thoroughly digested. Ultimately, the quote urges readers to read with purpose, considering and deliberating on the material they encounter.