Intellectual principles, or, Elements of mental science : intuitions-thoughts-beliefs / by John H. Godwin.

  • Godwin, John H. (John Hensley), 1809-1889.
Date:
1884
Catalogue details

Licence: Public Domain Mark

Credit: Intellectual principles, or, Elements of mental science : intuitions-thoughts-beliefs / by John H. Godwin. Source: Wellcome Collection.

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    But the greater portion of human knowledge, that which has the highest interest and importance, respects the thoughts and affections, the conduct and character, of men. Most of the literature of the world respects what is mental and moral, as distinguished from what is merely material; and the welfare of individuals, families, and nations depends more on the former than on the latter. The claims made on behalf of material sciences, as surer and more useful, if not nobler, than others, cannot be rightly appreciated unless other objects and other evidences are duly considered. If it be assumed that Nature is all that can be known by us, and if the lower parts of human nature be taken as the whole, and some physical axioms are employed to the ex- clusion of all others, and if things really different are regarded as the same, the results must be erroneous and disastrous. But without some knowledge of Mental Science it cannot be seen when and how far these things are done. All studies are profitable for the exercise of the faculties, . which they require; and Mental Science is especially useful, because it requires the exercise of all our faculties, and because it is closely connected with all the various occupa- tions of life. Illustrations and applications of its truths are to be found everywhere. While other sciences can be studied only occasionally, and need some apparatus and in- struments, Mental Science may be studied in all places and at all times, and requires only the exercise of our own powers of observation and reflection. 3. As all our knowledge of Nature comes from Experi- ence, so it is with our knowledge of Mind. Observation and Experiment are the two forms of Experience; by the first men learn that which appears without their interference, and by the second that which appears in consequence. Both are employed in the study of Mind; for while many things come apart from any choice or action, many others
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