142 The Morality of Nature 



sponsibility, but one which differs from that of simpler Hfe 

 only in the enjoyment of the highest and newest phases, of 

 a system of development which continues. It appeared that 

 the chief visible effects of conduct are the success or the 

 failure of its purpose to maintain the life exercising it. In 

 the course of this exercise, or practice, experiences and 

 abilities and habits are added to the knowledge of the crea- 

 ture, and transmitted as attributes of its material substance, 

 by heredity, to be enjoyed or endured by offspring. This 

 continuation of consequences is seen to be indefinite in dura- 

 tion. The material substance so transmitted does not die, 

 but continues to grow and add experiences, with potential 

 immortality. In this, and in the simultaneous growth of 

 conduct, the increase of complexity accompanies a com- 

 munity of interest in consequences, among many individuals. 

 The lineage in direct line of descent, and the family, and 

 tribe, and the race, are each seen as units of activity in higher 

 conduct, sharing its responsibilities. The mind is thus led 

 to an examination of this higher conduct, and of the greater 

 life unit in whose interest it operates; and to a study of the 

 relations between this greater undying unit, and the mortal 

 individual, exercising separate discretion and will. 



The material benefit and reward for fit and proper con- 

 duct, which is a continued lease of existence, with potential 

 immortality is, evidently an essential privilege of all life; 

 and is enjoyed by humanity in common with the brutes, and 

 even the plants of the field. The law governing this con- 

 tinuing process is automatic and self-sustaining and operates 

 entirely independent of any knowledge or consciousness on 

 the part of the creatures governed. 



