Of Superstition MCQs & Summary

Summary:

In Of Superstition, Francis Bacon argues that superstition is more dangerous than atheism because it corrupts true religion and misleads people. He describes superstition as a disease that infects faith, leading to irrational beliefs and harmful practices. Bacon criticizes religious leaders who promote superstitions for personal gain, warning that it weakens governance and society. Unlike atheism, which he sees as a rejection of religion, superstition distorts religious truth and prevents people from thinking rationally. He emphasizes the need for reason and knowledge to eliminate superstitions and create a more rational and just society.

MCQs:

1. What is Francis Bacon’s main argument in Of Superstition?
   a) Superstition is harmless and should be encouraged
   b) Superstition is more dangerous than atheism
   c) Religion and superstition are the same
   d) Superstition leads to wisdom
   Answer: b) Superstition is more dangerous than atheism
2. How does Bacon define superstition?
   a) A false or corrupt form of religion
   b) A way to strengthen faith
   c) A scientific method of understanding the world
   d) A necessary part of human society
   Answer: a) A false or corrupt form of religion
3. According to Bacon, why is superstition harmful?
   a) It distorts true religion and leads people away from reason
   b) It provides people with comfort and security
   c) It strengthens religious beliefs
   d) It promotes scientific thinking
   Answer: a) It distorts true religion and leads people away from reason

   

4. What does Bacon compare superstition to?
   a) A disease that infects religion
   b) A guiding light for society
   c) A necessary evil
   d) A tool of wisdom
   Answer: a) A disease that infects religion
5. What does Bacon say about atheism in comparison to superstition?
   a) Atheism is less harmful than superstition
   b) Atheism is more dangerous than superstition
   c) Atheism and superstition are equally bad
   d) Atheism leads to more superstitions
   Answer: a) Atheism is less harmful than superstition
6. According to Bacon, why do superstitions continue to exist?
   a) Because people are naturally drawn to irrational beliefs
   b) Because they are part of true religion
   c) Because they help people find happiness
   d) Because they are supported by scientific evidence
   Answer: a) Because people are naturally drawn to irrational beliefs
7. What is Bacon’s suggested solution to superstition?
   a) The use of reason and knowledge
   b) Blind faith in religious practices
   c) Ignoring it completely
   d) Promoting more religious rituals
   Answer: a) The use of reason and knowledge
8. How does Bacon view religious leaders who promote superstition?
   a) As corrupt individuals who manipulate people
   b) As wise guides to faith
   c) As necessary for social stability
   d) As scientists of faith
   Answer: a) As corrupt individuals who manipulate people
9. What does Bacon say about the impact of superstition on governance?
   a) It weakens rulers and leads to bad decisions
   b) It strengthens the authority of rulers
   c) It has no impact on governance
   d) It helps create stronger laws
   Answer: a) It weakens rulers and leads to bad decisions
10. What is Bacon’s final message in Of Superstition?
    a) People should rely on reason rather than blind faith
    b) Superstition is necessary for society
    c) Superstition is a sign of wisdom
    d) Science and superstition are closely related
    Answer: a) People should rely on reason rather than blind faith