Who was the author of Novum Organum?

The correct option is Francis Bacon.

Step-by-step Explanation:

1. Identification of the Work: Novum Organum (which translates from Latin as "New Instrument" or "New Tool") is a seminal philosophical work published in 1620. The title is a reference to Aristotle's work Organon, which was his treatise on logic and syllogism.

2. Author and Significance: The book was written by the English philosopher, statesman, and scientist Francis Bacon. In this work, Bacon detailed a new system of logic, now known as the Baconian method, which laid the foundation for the modern scientific method. He argued that empirical observation, inductive reasoning, and systematic experimentation should replace deductive logic and scholastic speculation to gain true knowledge about the natural world.

3. Evaluating the Options:
- Robert Burton: Known for writing The Anatomy of Melancholy (1621).
- Francis Bacon: The author of Novum Organum.
- Thomas Browne: Known for works like Religio Medici (1643) and Pseudodoxia Epidemica (1646).
- Montaigne (Michel de Montaigne): A French philosopher known for popularizing the essay as a literary genre with his Essais.

Therefore, Francis Bacon is the correct author.