A Physicist on Evolution, 199 



we should oppose, to the death if necessaiy, is every attempt to 

 found upon this elemental bias of man's nature a system which 

 should exercise despotic sway over his intellect. I do not fear any 

 such consummation. Science has already to some extent leavened 

 the world, and it will leaven it more and more. I should look 

 upon the mild light of science breaking in upon the minds of the 

 youth of Ireland, and strengthening gradually to the perfect day, 

 as a surer check to any intellectual or spiritual tyranny which might 

 threaten this island, than the laws of princes or the swords of 

 emperors. Where is the cause of fear ? We fought and won our 

 battle even in the Middle Ages : why should we doubt the issue of 

 a conflict now ? 



