INTRODUCTION. S 



The method by which the various branches of 

 general physics are cultivated, consists in reducing 

 the several bodies which are respectivelythe subjects 

 of each particular branch to their greatest attainable 

 simplicity; in examining their various properties 

 when called separately into action, by the exercise 

 either of reflection or experiment, and observing or 

 calculating the results ; also, by generalizing and 

 connecting the laws by which they are regulated, so 

 as to form, as it were, certain codes ; and finally, if 

 possible, to establish some universal principle into 

 which all such laws so ascertained and methodized, 

 may be finally resolvable. 



By Particular Physics, or Natural History, (for the 

 terms are synonymous,) is intended the particular 

 application of the laws ascertained by general phy- 

 sics to the various subjects of creation, for the pur- 

 pose of explaining their different phenomena. 



In this extensive signification, natural history 

 would include astronomy, which is acquired by the 

 ai<J, of mechanics alone, to the laws of which it is 

 completely subservient. The mode of studying it 

 is too different, therefore, to permit its classification 

 under the head of natural history. We must also 

 exclude meteorology for reasons somewhat similar. 



After these exceptions, natural history, restrained 

 from the consideration of the objects of pure calcu- 

 lation and precise experiment, will be found to claim 

 as its proper province the inanimate bodies called 

 minerals, and the various kinds of living beings, both 



B 2 



