234 COMPARATIVE PHYSIO LOGY OF THE BRAIN 



Although we recognise no metaphysical free-will, 

 we do not deny personal responsibility. We can fill 

 the memory of the young generation with such asso- 

 ciations as will prevent wron^doin^ or dissipation. 



i O O I 



If in a human being such associations are lacking, it 

 points to an organic deficiency or to an insufficient 

 education, for which in some cases the parents, in the 

 majority of cases, our present social conditions, are 

 responsible. 



Punishment is, perhaps, justifiable in so far as it 

 may bring about inhibitory associations or may be 

 able to strengthen the inhibitory associations of 

 weaker members of society. Inhibitions to be effect- 

 ive, however, must be cultivated in youth, as the time 

 at which the penal code is enforced is usually too late 

 for any lasting benefit. Cruelty in the penal code 

 and the tendency to exaggerate punishments are sure 

 signs of a low civilisation and of an imperfect 

 educational system. 



order to save the lowest and most imperative, that of eating. If those who 

 amass immense fortunes could possibly intensify their own lives with their abun- 

 dance, it might perhaps be rational to let many suffer in order to have a few 

 cases of true happiness. But for an increase of happiness only that amount of 

 money is of service which can be used for the harmonious development and 

 satisfaction of inherited instincts. For this comparatively little is necessary. 

 The rest is of no more use to a man than the surplus of oxygen in the atmos- 

 phere. As a matter of fact, the only true satisfaction a multi-millionaire can 

 possibly get from increasing his fortune, is the satisfaction of the instinct of 

 workmanship, or the pleasure that is connected with a successful display 

 of energy. The scientist gets this satisfaction without diminishing the value 

 of life of his fellow-beings, and the same should be true for the business man. 



