418 THE NATURE OF TRADITION 



merely to a particular level and there stop. There is a movement 

 of thought which at least in its earlier stages takes the form of 

 a clarification of concepts. The products of conceptual thinking 

 are stored up and handed on in the form of tradition. This 

 tradition is cumulative. Not only are additions made to it but 

 the methods of storing are improved. Elements may also be 

 lost. Finally, forming, as it does, a very important element in the 

 manifestation of human mental character, men, and more parti- 

 cularly races of men, may be selected in accordance with the degree 

 and quality of tradition acquired by them. 



