Vlll PREFACE. 



reaction of thought that we see about us here in 

 England, yet Die Welt-rathsel found an immediate 

 and very extensive circle of readers. One of the most 

 prominent zoologists of the century, Professor Haeckel 

 has a unique claim to pronounce with authority, from 

 the scientific side, on what is known as " the conflict 

 of science and religion." In the contradictory 

 estimates that are urged on us — for the modern 

 ecclesiastic is as emphatic in his assurance that the 

 conflict has ended favourably to theology as the 

 rationalist is with his counter-assertion — the last 

 words of one of the leading combatants of the second 

 half of the century, still, happily, in full vigour of 

 mind, will be heard with respect and close attention. 



A glance at the index of the work suffices to indicate 

 its comprehensive character. The judgment of the 

 distinguished scientist cannot fail to have weight on 

 all the topics included ; yet the reader will soon 

 discover a vein of exceptionally interesting thought in 

 the chapters on evolution. The evolution of the 

 human body is no longer a matter of serious dispute. 

 It has passed the first two tribunals — those of theology 

 and of an a priori philosophy — and is only challenged 

 at the third and last — that of empirical proof — by the 

 decorative heads of scientific bodies and by a few 

 isolated thinkers. 



" Apparent rari nantes in gurgite vasto." 



