59 



which answers to the rank every being holds in tire 

 system. 



2. Of all the modifications of matter, the most * ex- 

 cellent is organization* 



The most perfect organization is that which produces 

 most effects, with an equal or smaller number of dissi- 

 milar parts. Such -amongst terrestrial beings is the hu- 

 man body, 



An organ is a system of solids whose structure, ar- 

 rangement; and action, have "motion for their ultimate * 

 eiidV either intestine or loco-motive, or feeling. 



A being, which is barely formed by a repetition of 

 similar parts, enjoys the lowest degrees of corporeal 

 perfection. Such probably is the- atom or elementary: 

 part tide. 



The faculty of generalizing ideas, or abstracting from ! 

 bject what it has in common with others, and 

 expressing it by^arbitrary signs, constitutes the highest 

 degree of spiritual perfection; and therein consists 

 the 'difference' between the human soul and the soul of 

 brutes. 



The soul which is only endued with sense occupies 

 the lowest degree in the scale. This perhaps is the per- 

 fection of the soul of the muscle. 



3. The reciprocal action of solius and fluids is the 

 foundation of the terrestrial life. 



To nourish ourselves, to grow by our food, to beget 

 individuals of f our own species, are the principal ends of 

 the terrestrial life/ 



If the action of the organs is not accompanied with a 

 sense of this action, the organized being enjoys oii 

 vegetative life. Such is the case of the plant. 



if the action ot the organs is joined with a sen. 



