530 EQUILIBRATION. 



a close while the others continue. Hence in every diversely 

 moving aggregate, there results a comparatively early dissi- 

 pation of motions which are smaller and much resisted ; fol- 

 lowed by long-continuance of the larger and less-resisted 

 motions; and so there arise dependent and independent 

 moving equilibria. Hence also may be inferred the tend- 

 ency to conservation of such moving equilibria. For the 

 new motion given to the parts of a moving equilibrium by 

 a disturbing force, must either be of such kind and amount 

 that it cannot be dissipated before the pre-existing motions, 

 in which case it brings the moving equilibrium to an end; 

 or else it must be of such kind and amount that it can be 

 dissipated before the pre-existing motions, in which case 

 the moving equilibrium is re-established. 



Thus from the persistence of force follow, not only the 

 various direct and indirect equilibrations going on around, 

 together with that cosmical equilibration which brings Evo- 

 lution under all its forms to a close; but also those less 

 manifest equilibrations shown in the re-adjustments of 

 moving equilibria that have been disturbed. By this ulti- 

 mate principle is provable the tendency of every organism, 

 disordered by some unusual influence, to return to a bal- 

 anced state. To it also may be traced the capacity, pos- 

 sessed in a slight degree by individuals, and in a greater 

 degree by species becoming adapted to new circumstances. 

 And not less does it afford a basis for the inference, that 

 there is a gradual advance towards harmony between man's 

 mental nature and the conditions of his existence. After 

 finding that from it are deducible the various characteristics 

 of Evolution, we finally draw from it a warrant for the 

 belief, that Evolution can end only in the establishment of 

 the greatest perfection and the most complete happiness. 



