82 PSYCHOLOGY. 



known, it was concluded, by induction, that all metals have the pro- 

 perty of being fusible; as later discoveries have farther indicated. 

 We can only add, that analogy and induction should not be trusted 

 too far, without experimental verifications. 



There are two opposite methods of employing our reasoning pow- 

 ers the analytic and synthetic. In the analytic method, we resolve 

 a complex subject into its simple elements ; or trace effects back to 

 their causes; while in the synthetic method, we recombme the 

 elements to reproduce the complex result ; or follow out the causes, 

 to discover the effects which they may produce. Each method has 

 its advantages; and each serves to corroborate the conclusions 

 obtained from the other. The analytic method is the most useful in 

 discovering new truths ; but is generally more abstract and intricate. 

 Hence the synthetic method is frequently used for instruction, or 

 demonstration; and it serves to explain the relations of cause and 

 effect, in a more natural order. In all arguments, or controversies, 

 care should be taken to fix and define the exact meaning of the terms 

 employed; for many disputes are verbal, and not real; arising 

 solely from different ideas being attached to the same word or term. 

 Another important rule of controversy, is, that we should avoid all 

 personal reflections upon an adversary ; particularly where abstract 

 truth is the object of the argument. 



CHAPTER III. 



PHRENICS. 



WE would apply the term Phrenics, to Mental Philosophy ; or 

 to that branch of knowledge, which treats of the faculties of the 

 human mind, and their laws of action ; with a general reference to 

 their use and cultivation. The early improvement of the mind 

 depends upon the laws of Phrenics ; but is made a special study 

 under the branch of Education. The name Phrenics, is from the 

 Greek $wv, the mind ; from which is also derived the term Phreno- 

 logy, a term now appropriated to a particular scheme, or system, of 

 Mental Philosophy. The terms Metaphysics, and Pneumatology, 

 have also been applied to this branch ; but of their impropriety we 

 have already spoken, (p. 36). Much as this study has been obscured 

 by conflicting systems, it is one of practical utility ; especially as 

 introductory to Ethics, and Education. 



Although the nature, or essence of the mind is unknown to us ; 

 we know that its actions, or manifestations, consist of either thought 

 or feeling; and that all thought is composed of ideas; which may be 

 defined objects or simple elements of thought. We know the exist- 

 ence of the mind, as distinct from matter, by our own consciousness ; 

 by analogical reasoning ; and by the evidence of the Scriptures. We 

 have like strong reasons for believing the mind, or soul, to be immor- 

 tal, and imperishable ; although the mortal body, which connected it 

 with the material world, after having performed its task, shall be laid 



