For the mind of man is far from the nature of a clear and equal glass, wherein the beams of things should reflect according to their true incidence
 Francis Bacon, The Advancement of Learning (1605). copy citation

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Author Francis Bacon
Source The Advancement of Learning
Topic mind glass
Date 1605
Language English
Reference
Note
Weblink http://www.gutenberg.org/files/5500/5500-h/5500-h.htm

Context

“But lastly, there is yet a much more important and profound kind of fallacies in the mind of man, which I find not observed or inquired at all, and think good to place here, as that which of all others appertaineth most to rectify judgment, the force whereof is such as it doth not dazzle or snare the understanding in some particulars, but doth more generally and inwardly infect and corrupt the state thereof. For the mind of man is far from the nature of a clear and equal glass, wherein the beams of things should reflect according to their true incidence; nay, it is rather like an enchanted glass, full of superstition and imposture, if it be not delivered and reduced. For this purpose, let us consider the false appearances that are imposed upon us by the general nature of the mind, beholding them in an example or two;” source