"There is as much difference between the counsel that a friend giveth, and that a man giveth himself, as there is between the counsel of a friend and of a flatterer. For there is no such flatterer as is a man's self"

This quote by Francis Bacon is highlighting the importance of seeking advice from a good friend instead of relying solely on one's own judgement. Bacon is recommending that the counsel of a buddy is more dependable than the counsel of an individual's own judgement. He is likewise implying that a person's own judgement can be biased and self-serving, and therefore not as trustworthy as the counsel of a buddy. Bacon is cautioning versus the risks of self-flattery, which can cause bad decision-making. He is suggesting that it is better to consult from a relied on buddy, as their counsel is most likely to be truthful and unbiased. Ultimately, Bacon is promoting for the significance of seeking advice from a good friend, instead of relying solely on one's own judgement.