302 THE MAMMALIA. 



more refined enjoyments of life, is not improving 

 the instruments for the acquisition of his food ; 

 they deteriorate in his hands a condition which 

 first began to make its appearance with the inven- 

 tion of cooking. The reduction of the human 

 dentition which has been of advantage to the 

 species in its struggle for existence has further 

 increased and changed to a kind of atavism or 

 reversion, since reason, acquired with speech, has 

 made Man more and more independent of the direct 

 effects of his natural surroundings. 



Hence it is not merely from a purely zoological 

 point of view that an inference is formed regarding 

 the future change of the human race. Moreover, 

 we cherish the hope which is justified by scientific 

 experiences and the belief, which rests upon the 

 same foundation, and these convince us of the 

 sure advance of humanity, and of the gradual and 

 general diffusion of morality, culture, and well- 

 being among the various races of Man. 



