958 PHILOSOPHY OF ZOOLOGY. 
of this desire, will often enable the naturalist to find out and 
to distinguish particular species ; and the extent of this kmd 
of knowledge distinguishes the practical from the closet na- 
turalist. 
4. Curiosity.—We observe in children, a disposition to 
examine the objects which surround them, and to ascertain 
their properties. Nor is this tendency confined to the early 
period. It continues to exercise its controul in manhood, 
and even in old age, prompting us to attend to new objects, 
to study the changes which present themselves, and to main- 
tain our acquaintance with the world in which we live. 
This principle appears to exercise a greater influence upon 
the human species than upon the individuals of any other, 
and urges us to examine a greater variety of objects, in every 
possible state of combination. It is to this feature of our cha- 
racter, that we can refer our superior capability of receiving 
imstruction. But the same principle operates, although in an 
inferior degree, among some of the lower animals. We have 
thus limited our asserticn, because, among many animals, we 
do not perceive even a trace of this desire, the attention bemg 
exclusively confined to the supply of the bodily wants. The 
monkey tribe are fond of examining new objects, and will 
subject themselves to a considerable degree of trouble in 
the attempt. The dog is seldom disposed to suffer a stran- 
ger to remain in his company, unmolested by his attempts 
to become acquainted with his appearance and smell. 
This instinct, m the lower animals, 1s confined to the ap- 
pearances and present properties of objects; while, with 
man, the case is different. He does not rest satisfied with 
a knowledge of appearances, but he is disposed to examine 
the agents which have produced them. The lower ani- 
mals have their curiosity confined to effects; man alone at- 
tempts to investigate causes. He builds, and he pulls 
down, he combines and divides, in order to satisfy his cu- 
