The classic treatise, first publilshed in 1605. According to Wikipedia: "Francis Bacon, 1st Viscount St Alban(1561 - 1626) was an English philosopher, statesman, and author. He served both as Attorney General and Lord Chancellor of England. He is also known as a catalyst of the scientific revolution. His most celebrated works include The New Atlantis. Bacon was knighted in 1603, created Baron Verulam in 1618, and Viscount St Alban in 1621..."