“New Atlantis” is a utopian novel by Sir Francis Bacon, written in 1626 and published posthumously in 1627. The book presents Bacon’s vision of a society living in perfect harmony and prosperity through the application of reason and science. The narrative is set on a fictional island called Bensalem, located somewhere in the Pacific Ocean. This island is depicted as a society that has achieved a near-perfect existence, prioritizing knowledge, enlightenment, and the welfare of its citizens above all else.

The story begins with a group of European travelers who, after a long voyage, are providentially led to the island of Bensalem. The islanders welcome the travelers and provide them with hospitality. The visitors are struck by the advanced state of civilization they encounter, which contrasts sharply with the Europe of Bacon’s time.

The central institution of Bensalem is Salomon’s House (or the College of the Six Days’ Work), which is essentially a state-sponsored research institute. Scientists and scholars in Salomon’s House devote themselves to studying the natural world, conducting experiments, and applying their knowledge for the benefit of society. Their work covers a wide range of scientific endeavors, including medicine, astronomy, mechanics, and agriculture.

Bacon uses the narrative to outline his ideas about the ideal use of human knowledge and the potential of scientific inquiry to improve the human condition. “New Atlantis” serves as a proposal for a new society that places knowledge and scientific discovery at the core of its values. The book is seen as a foundational text in the genre of utopian literature and has had a significant influence on the development of scientific thought and the philosophy of science.

Arrival and Welcome

• Hospitality and Secrecy: Upon the travelers’ arrival, the Bensalemites display exceptional hospitality, but they also maintain a certain level of secrecy about their society. This initial interaction introduces the theme of controlled dissemination of knowledge.

Introduction to Bensalem

• Religion and Science Harmony: The islanders explain the coexistence of religion and science in Bensalem, showing that scientific inquiry does not conflict with their faith. This reflects Bacon’s idea that the pursuit of knowledge through science is a divine mandate.
• Family and Education: The structure of Bensalem’s society is briefly touched upon, emphasizing the importance of education and moral values, which are seen as foundational for a harmonious society.

Salomon’s House

• The Role of Scientific Institutions: The heart of Bacon’s utopia is Salomon’s House, an institution dedicated to knowledge and scientific inquiry. It represents Bacon’s vision for a society that supports and benefits from organized scientific research.
• Scientific Methods and Inventions: Through the description of Salomon’s House, Bacon introduces various scientific methods and hypothetical inventions. These include techniques for extending life, preserving food, creating new materials, and manipulating natural phenomena. These ideas highlight the potential of science to improve human life and the environment.
• Application of Knowledge: The scholars of Salomon’s House not only seek knowledge but also apply it for practical purposes, aiming to benefit society as a whole. This reflects Bacon’s belief in the importance of applying scientific discoveries to address real-world problems.

Governance and Society

• Enlightened Leadership: The governance of Bensalem is hinted at being wise and benevolent, guided by the principles of reason and the common good. This suggests Bacon’s ideal of leaders who prioritize the welfare of their people and support the advancement of knowledge.
• Utopian Social Order: Although not extensively detailed, the social order of Bensalem is presented as just and equitable, with a focus on the well-being of all its citizens. This utopian aspect of Bensalem reflects Bacon’s critique of the social and political systems of his own time and his vision for a better society.

Unfinished Narrative

• Since “New Atlantis” is unfinished, it does not fully explore all the ideas Bacon intended to address. The narrative breaks off as it delves into the workings of Salomon’s House, leaving readers to speculate on the further development of Bacon’s utopian vision.