20 MIND IN EVOLUTION CHAP. 



observable correlation we shall impute a corresponding 

 mental function, and shall hold ourselves justified in 

 so doing even in the animal world so far as we restrict 

 ourselves to terms importing function and do not attempt 

 a picture of a state of consciousness as known only to its 

 possessor. We remark finally that any doubt attaching 

 to the use of such terms will not apply to the descrip- 

 tion of the types of correlation effected, which depend 

 entirely on accuracy in the analysis of observed facts of 

 behaviour. 



4. In order to apply our conception of mental correlation 

 and distinguish it from the mechanical, we must include 

 within it every class of action in which the relation to 

 results enters in as a factor. For purposes of illustration 

 we have employed purposive behaviour. But fully 

 developed Purpose is not the only practical operation of 

 Mind. This we may ascertain by regarding operations 

 either from within or from without. If we look at 

 purpose from the inside the relation to the result is 

 a matter of consciousness. We have an idea of the end 

 in view, and this idea is a factor in promoting and 

 guiding our behaviour until the end is reached. But 

 the employment of ideas is a relatively advanced stage in 

 the life of mind. We shall find types of action that 

 resemble purpose in that they are determined by relation 

 to the result, although no idea of the result is consciously 

 formulated. We shall find that, viewed externally as 

 modes of correlation, they differ in a manner correspond- 

 ing to the difference ascertained by conscious analysis. 

 We need, therefore, a generic name for all action which 

 is in one way or another determined by relation to the 

 result which will accrue from it, whether there is a full 

 antecedent awareness of that result or not. For this 

 purpose psychology employs the term Conation. Cona- 

 tion is a mental state which as such tends to pass into 

 some other. The " other " may be clearly or ill defined. 

 The method of operation may be precise or wavering and 

 uncertain. We shall have to take up these points at a later 

 stage and seek a closer understanding of the relation of 

 Conation to purpose. Meanwhile it results from our 



