CHAPTER III 



DEPENDENT LIFE 



In a consideration of the physical and material advantage 

 of a character developed by evolution, it is perhaps of small 

 consequence how the character originated, whether in acci- 

 dental variation, or as logically produced novelty. But in 

 any study of the psychological nature of man, and especially 

 of the aspirations which address the future by forming 

 ideals, an understanding of the source of the impulse is of 

 high value. 



When, in the confusion of relations which the civilized 

 world assumes, an appeal is made to reason for a decision 

 upon a certain act, it may be quite impossible to assemble 

 the innumerable conflicting factors in the problem ; and then 

 a knowledge of the basic principle involved, may be as an 

 inspiration. Thus altruistic action which is apparently erra- 

 tic, or in unaccountable contradiction of the law of self-pres- 

 ervation, may stand clearly revealed in this light, and be 

 perceived as a logical virtue. And even granting that con- 

 duct under the altruistic impulse, may be, like other kinds, 

 sometimes in error, and may put forth efforts which fail, 

 yet it must be seen that the impulse in its general purposes 

 and effects is not only good, but is the part of essential good 

 which is human morality. 



The mutual support and co-operation cultivated by repro- 



159 



