134 PHILOSOPHY DEFINED. 



generalizations of a simple or low order, and rising gradual- 

 ly to higher and more extended generalizations. But if so, 

 where remains any subject-matter for Philosophy? 



The reply is — Philosophy may still properly be the title 

 retained for knowledge of the highest generality. Science 

 means merely the family of the Sciences — stands for noth- 

 ing more than the sum of knowledge formed of their con- 

 tributions; and ignores the knowledge constituted by the 

 fu&ionoi all these contributions into a whole. As usage has 

 defined it, Science consists of truths existing more or less 

 separated; and does not recognize these truths as entirely 

 integrated. An illustration will make the difference clear. 



If we ascribe the flow of a river to the same force which 

 causes the fall of a stone, we make a statement, true as far 

 as it goes, that belongs to a certain division of Science. If, 

 in further explanation of a movement produced by gravita- 

 tion in a direction almost horizontal, we cite the law that 

 fluids subject to mechanical forces exert re-active forces 

 which are equal in all directions, we formulate a wider 

 fact, containing the scientific interpretation of many other 

 phenomena; as those presented by the fountain, the hy- 

 draulic press, the steam-engine, the air-pump. And when 

 this proposition, extending only to the dynamics of fluids, 

 is merged in a proposition of general dynamics, compre- 

 hending the laws of movement of solids as well as of fluids, 

 there is reached a yet higher truth; but still a truth that 

 comes wholly within the realm of Science. Again, 



looking around at Birds and Mammals, suppose we say that 

 air-breathing animals are hot-blooded; and that then, re- 

 membering how Reptiles, which also breathe air, are not 

 much warmer than their media, we say, more truly, that ani- 

 mals (bulks being equal) have temperatures proportionate to 

 the quantities of air they breathe ; and that then, calling to 

 mind certain large fish which maintain a heat considerably 

 above that of the water they swim in, we further correct 

 the generalization by saying that the temperature varies as 



