Idols of the Mind

Sir Francis Bacon listed four Idols of the Mind which obstructed the path of correct scientific reasoning for his Baconian method of research of phenomenon (a precursor to the development of the scientific method). These four idols included:

1) Idols of the Tribe (Idola Tribus) - Fallacies derived from the nature of man and his social organization.

2) Idols of the Cave (Idola Specus) - Fallacies derived from prejudice and personal biased thought.

3) Idols of the Marketplace (Idola Fori) (Also called Idols of the Forum) - Fallacies derived from cultural customs.

4) Idols of the Theater - Fallacies resulting from traditional beliefs and techniques.

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