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CHAP. IX. 



Of the Modes of correcting the prevailing Opinions on 



Population. 



It is not enough to abolish all the positive insti- 

 tutions which encourage population ; but we must 

 endeavour, at the same time, to correct the pre- 

 vailing opinions which have the same, or perhaps 

 even a more powerful effect. This must neces- 

 sarily be a work of time ; and can only be done 

 by circulating juster notions on these subjects in 

 writings and conversation ; and by endeavouring* 

 to impress as strongly as possible on the public 

 mind, that it is not the duty of man simply to pro- 

 pagate his species, but to propagate virtue and 

 happiness ; and that, if he has not a tolerably fair 

 prospect of doing this, he is by no means called 

 upon to leave descendants. 



Among the higher ranks of society, we have not 

 much reason to apprehend the too great frequency 

 of marriage. Though the circulation of juster no- 

 tions on this subject might, even in this part of the 

 community, do much good, and prevent many un- 

 happy marriages ; yet whether we make particular 

 exertions for this purpose or not, we may rest as- 

 sured that the degree of proper pride and spirit of 

 independence almost invariably connected with 

 education and a certain rank in life will secure the 



