,50 LECTURE I. 



and collectively I admit, that the belief 

 that man is a machine does not tend to 

 alter his natural and established motions, 

 and consequently, that there have been 

 many good and moral sceptics. But I also 

 know, that the good dispositions will want 

 that excitement and energy which the op- 

 posite sentiments produce, whilst the bad 

 will be left without control.- It is equally 

 apparent that the belief of the distinct and 

 independent nature of mind, incites us to 

 act rightly from principle ; to relieve dis- 

 tress, to repel aggression, and defend those 

 who are incapable of protecting them- 

 selves ; to practise and extol whatever is 

 virtuous, excellent, and honourable ; to 

 shun and condemn whatever is vicious and 

 base ; regardless also of our own personal 

 feelings and interest, when put in compe- 

 tition with our duty. 



We all seek for truth, and on her ap- 

 proach, and in her presence, are ready to sa- 

 crifice, without hesitation or reluctance, our 

 most favorite opinions ; — but to exchange 

 opinions for other opinions, as in this case 



