INTRODUCTORY REMARKS. 11 



in many cases it is otherwise when details are considered ; and 

 the process of discovery that describes structures, and conjec- 

 tures or endeavors to deduce functions therefrom, is the only 

 course that can be taken. When, however, a purpose and the 

 action necessary to accomplish it is understood, they should be 

 explained first ; then the properties, structure, and arrangement 

 adapted to fulfil the purpose should be suggested, and the 

 student encouraged to construct mentally a part in accordance 

 with the necessities of the case. Comparing his result with the 

 reality, he will be delighted to observe how well he has execu- 

 ted his own imaginary work will be surprised at the common- 

 sense manner in which every portion of the body has been 

 made, and cannot but admire in the highest degree the exquis- 

 itely perfect adaptation of every part to all, and more than all 

 that he would have required. 



Thus, not only is interest excited and acquisition made rapid, 

 but brevity is likewise gained ; for irrelevant characteristics may 

 be omitted when description is only to correspond to purpose, 

 while if it is unknown, every particular must be given. 



A second idea, arising from the first, but not of secondary 

 importance, is, that the subjects should be studied under divis- 

 ions and subdivisions made in accordance with the purposes or 

 uses for which the different parts of the body were designed ; 

 the parts being classed, not so much according to similarity as 

 community of use, and so as to show their relations to each 

 other, to the whole body, and to the mind. 



When this is done, there will be exhibited in Physiology, 

 Anatomy, and Hygiene, an analysis and synthesis, a systematic 

 arrangement, more natural, obvious, and complete, than can be 

 found in any other subject. (See page 399.) 



Classification should not be artificial, arbitrary, accidental, 

 fanciful, trifling, or superficial, but should exhibit the Divine 

 purpose in organizing the human system, which in itself is prac- 

 tical knowledge. 



