"Nothing doth more hurt in a state than that cunning men pass for wise"
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Francis Bacon’s observation strikes at the heart of governance and the social fabric of any community. Cunning, as he refers to it, is not true wisdom but a manipulative intelligence that operates through guile, deceit, and self-interest. Such cunning individuals are adept at manipulating appearances and perceptions, often cloaking their actions under the guise of prudence or cleverness. However, the fundamental flaw lies in mistaking this cunning for genuine wisdom, a quality characterized by discernment, moral clarity, foresight, and concern for the public good.
When cunning men are elevated to positions of trust or authority precisely because their craftiness is mistaken for sagacity, the state is put at risk. Cunning operates through short-term advantage and temporary solutions, often at the expense of ethics and the long-term welfare of society. Policies or decisions made under the sway of cunning may secure immediate gain or the appearance of stability, but rarely serve justice or sustainable prosperity.
Furthermore, the confusion between cunning and wisdom undermines the moral tone of leadership. It sends clear signals to others that success can be achieved not by upholding integrity or seeking the common good, but by mastering manipulation and concealment. This lowers public trust, fosters cynicism, and ultimately erodes the foundations of societal cohesion. As leadership often sets the standard for the rest of the society, the enshrinement of cunning as wisdom creates a cycle: shrewd opportunists rise, genuinely wise voices are sidelined, and the values of a state pivot toward expediency.
Genuine wisdom encompasses humility, ethical reflection, and an appreciation for complexity. When the two are confused, society is deprived of these virtues. Bacon’s words stand as a warning: the gravest danger lies not in the presence of cunning, but in failing to distinguish it from true wisdom. Such a misjudgment can corrode the state from within, affecting generations to come.
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