Of Truth by Sir Francis Bacon, 1625; p 3 (online textbook)

 

    This essay is very straightforward in its title and contents. Bacon asserts that truth is vital in the maintenance of our relationship with God. Even though truth is hard to come by, sometimes less desirable than the lies, emotionally difficult to express, and less compelling than alternatives, the importance of telling the truth cannot be overlooked. I chose this excerpt because I find it really applicable to the media culture today. Lies seem to be addicting, evils are spread faster than ever, and we have to pay extra close attention to determine the true intentions of the people around us. I think this piece is a good reminder to stay humble and truthful with ourselves and God, even if no one else does the same:

“But it is not only the difficulty and labor which men take in finding out the truth, nor again that when it is found it imposeth upon men’s thoughts, that doth bring lies in favor; but a natural though corrupt love of the lie itself.”