Its libertinism was fortified by the Aristotelian naturalism (linked with skeptical and Epicurean currents) taught at the University of Padua, which was attended by the Venetian upper classes.

Machiavelli was an influence through formulating a view of religion as a product of human history rather than divine revelation, exercised by an elite for the purpose of social control.

Continuing a practice set by Aretino and the poligrafi in the mid-16th century, Incogniti authors wrote in a lively, contemporary idiom, usually bereft of classical baggage and archaic vocabulary.

The academy's historical writings were inspired by Paolo Sarpi, as well as Machiavelli and Guicciardini, all of whom were viewed as exposing the workings of tyranny, and so as alerting readers to the abuses of power, both political and religious.

Le glorie degli Incogniti, a Who's Who of the Academy, with a biographical sketch, list of works to date, and a fine portrait engraving for each of the one hundred and two members, was compiled by Girolamo Brusoni with the help of Loredan and published in Venice in 1647.