SECT. VII. PHYSIOLOGY. 43 
vital force,” says Bichat, “ manifests itself in two 
opposite states: in paralysis, and convulsions; the 
first is the sign of diminished energy, and the 
second of augmented energy.” 
Lxxxi. It is no uncommon circumstance to 
see a limb convulsed and paralyzed at the same 
instant; in such a case, is it either logical or com- 
prehensible to assert, that the paralyzed limb hath 
its vital force both augmented and diminished at 
the same moment? Convulsions, also, invariably 
follow profuse hemorrhage, which is, notwith- 
standing, the most effectual means that can be 
employed to reduce the vital foree when it is too 
high. 
Lxxxu. The keen observation and discerning 
judgment of Bichat, could not have permitted 
him to fall into such a palpable mistake, had his 
ideas not been entangled in the Hallerian irrita- 
bility. But to the opinions of Bichat and Haller, 
may be opposed those of Hoffman: “ quo vehe- 
mentior itaque spasmus est, et quo diutius partem 
affligit; eo major atonia, imbecilitas ac virium 
resolutio relinquuntur.” 
Lxxxi. If augmentation of the vital force be 
the causwof convulsion, then ought the muscles 
to be convulsed by inflammation; but, unless 
there be, at the same time, a cerebral congestion, 
they are, in all diseases of an inflammatory nature, 
