Francis Bacon (1561-1626) We live in Francis Bacon's world. Before him, populations had been subject to plague and famine on a scale difficult to imagine today. In arguing that nature could be understood and put to human service, Bacon changed the course of history, saving countless lives. In his quest to conquer nature, Bacon became the father of modern science but, as such, he introduced the scientism that has shaped the world since. In this engaging critical work, Innes provides a compelling Reformed analysis of a complex man's complex legacy - and in so doing, shows us how to engage thoughtfully with scientific philosophies and technologies that surround us today.