Conduct in Evolution 277 



desire for good, must continually seek it in the perceptions 

 and conditions proper to its own generation. In spite of 

 occasional reaction there results an accumulation of under- 

 standing, which is progressive not only in its manner of 

 moving, but also in the things achieved; and finally this 

 continued elevation of the goal to which conduct aspires, and 

 of the system and method by which it is approached, are, 

 in their nature, of infinite possibilities, in continuing eleva- 

 tion of moral purpose and the approach toward ultimate 

 perfection. 



The principles thus discovered, although affording no 

 fixed standards or rules, are yet calling for allegiance to 

 higher ideals beyond present comprehension, and this alle- 

 giance is the essence of moral progress. 



The identity of interest of the many related individuals 

 and the continuity of their lives, was inferred rather than 

 proven by consideration of conduct. There is however a 

 physical basis of proof of the facts which were stated in the 

 earlier study, and which may here be taken up for detailed 

 investigation. 



A study of human conduct shows clearly that the acts of 

 the individual, and the consequences of them, which are not 

 explained sufficiently by observation of that individual alone, 

 extend into, and influence other individual lives in two dis- 

 tinct relationships. First it is seen, that a co-interest or 

 share by many others in the direct consequences of action, 

 becomes a material consideration in the impulses as soon as 

 volition appears — and secondly, there is found a joining in 

 physical responsibility with the present individual, of many 

 individuals in direct lineal descent, past and future. This 



