Mick Wallace Recalls Francis Bacon's Definition of 'Gentleman'

Mick Wallace cited a 17th-century definition of a 'gentleman' attributed to Francis Bacon, saying a gentleman is one who treats others as he would like to be treated by them. He delivered the remark directly to the President during his address.

Summary of the remark

Wallace referenced Francis Bacon's words to define a gentleman or lady as someone who treats others as they would wish to be treated themselves, presenting the line as a historical definition rather than a personal anecdote.

Historical reference

He identified the origin of the definition as the 17th century in Britain and attributed it specifically to Francis Bacon, framing the statement as a direct quotation from that period.

Audience and delivery

The comment was addressed to the President, introduced with the phrase "Believe it or not, President," situating the line within the context of a formal remark or speech.

Core principle highlighted

Wallace emphasised the reciprocal ethical standard captured in the quotation — treating others as one would like to be treated — without further elaboration in the provided transcript.