The Modern Theory of Instinct 



handed down by heredity in the same way as 

 the rhythmic action of the heart and lungs. 



Let us try, if possible, to trace the Ammo- 

 phila's instinct to its source. We suffer to- 

 day, more than we ever did, from a mania 

 for explaining what might well be incapable 

 of explanation. There are some and 

 their number seems to increase daily who 

 settle the stupendous question with magnifi- 

 cent audacity. Give them half-a-dozen cells, 

 a bit of protoplasm and a diagram for de- 

 monstration; and they will account to you for 

 everything. The organic world, the intel- 

 lectual and moral world, everything derives 

 from the original cell, evolving by means of 

 its own energies. It's as simple as A B C. 

 Instinct, roused by a chance action that has 

 proved favourable to the animal, is an ac- 

 quired habit. And men argue on this basis, 

 invoking natural selection, heredity, the 

 struggle for life. I see plenty of big words, 

 but I should prefer a few small facts. 

 These little facts I have been collecting and 

 catechizing for nearly forty years; and their 

 replies are not exactly in favour of current 

 theories. 



You tell me that instinct is an acquired 

 habit, that a casual circumstance, propitious 

 399 



