172 



The first species is science, or demonstration, which 

 appears clearest in the syllogistic form ; by applying 

 a common measure to two extremes, winch have an 

 infallible connection with it : so that the conclusion 

 follows by an absolute certainty, and compels the 

 assent. And the knowledge is a* infallible as the 

 direct, clear perception of sensation, or conscious- 

 ness. 



The second species of it is moral certainty, the ut- 

 most degree of which is nearest to demonstration. 

 This knowledge i? acquired by proofs, that have only 

 an undoubted connection with the two extremes. 

 The force of this every plain understanding per- 

 ceives ; and it rarely requires the syllogistic form, 

 unless for the confuting perverse opposers. The 

 arguments for it are deduced from all kinds of know- 

 ledge : but still the assent is free; and the will has 

 a great share in promoting or hindering it. And 

 hence it comes, that there is room for passion and 

 prejudice of all sorts, to interpose awl bias the in- 

 tellect. 



We ought not therefore to call the evidence of 

 moral truths, by the name of demonstration. It is 

 true, both mathematical and moral truths are found- 

 ed on the strongest proofs. Yet they admit not of 

 the same sort of proof, nor indeed are they capable 

 of it. 



Because it is so great a disadvantage both to na- 

 tural and revealed religion, to have a moral certainty 

 confounded with mathematical, I shall distinguish 



