532 THE GRAMMAR OF SCIENCE 



development. This point is illustrated by the Precise and Synoptic Physical 

 Sciences. 



From Bacon we learn that the best form for classification is that of a 

 branching tree, but from Comte that there is in reality an interdependence in 

 the sciences, so that a clear understanding of one may necessitate a previous 

 study of several others. From Spencer we may adopt the fundamental 

 distinction between Abstract and Concrete Science, or those which deal 

 respectively with the modes and the contents of perception. We then find 

 three fundamental divisions corresponding to the Abstract, Physical, and 

 Biological Sciences which are united pair and pair by Applied Mathematics 

 and Bio-physics. 



LITERATURE 



Bacon, F. — De Dignitate et Augmentis Scientiarum (London, 1623), and 

 Descriptio Globi Intellectualis (161 2). Translations will be found in 

 J. Spedding and R. L. Ellis' edition of The Works of Francis Bacon, 

 vols. iv. and v. London, 1858. 



Comte, A. — System of Positive Polity (1854), translated by Congreve, vol. 

 iv. chap. iii. London, 1877. 



Spencer, H. — The Classification of the Sciences (Hertford, 1864), or. 

 Essays, Scientific, Political, and Speculative, vol. iii. pp. 9-56. 

 London, 1875, 



