Roger Bacon was a 13th-century English philosopher and Franciscan friar known for his early advocacy of the scientific method. He emphasized the importance of empirical evidence and experimentation in understanding the natural world, which was a significant shift from the reliance on ancient texts and authority. Bacon is often credited with laying the groundwork for modern science. His works, including Opus Majus, explored various subjects such as optics, alchemy, and mathematics. He believed that knowledge should be pursued through observation and reason, influencing future thinkers and the development of the scientific revolution.