36 The Materialistic Origin of the Sexes . [January, 
action of opposite sexes and elements. Chemical analysis 
in this particular shows that we are right. No natural pro 
duction can be found containing the elements of only one class ; 
both metallic and non-metallic are essential to a formation. 
In simple laboratory experiments the opposite elements will 
combine readily with one another, while combination cannot 
be produced among the elements of either class alone. 
Even the simplest natural productions, such as air and 
water, are of dual combinations. Air composed o oxygen, 
nitrogen, carbonic acid gas, hydrogen , &c. Water, composed 
of oxygen and hydrogen , is the great medium also of life and 
production. Even the old element , fire or combustion, can 
only be produced from oxygen and hydrogen, with other 
opposing dual elements. All rock formations, crystals, 
stratas, are produced from combinations of the dual ele- 
ments. All plants and vegetation are of dual formation and 
dual in sex, while all animals are undoubtedly male and 
female. 
Our premises being thus clear and true regarding the ele- 
ments of matter, it follows that — as all plants and animals 
are composed of the same elements, of oxygen, hydrogen, 
&c., in different proportions and combinations — the conclu- 
sion we have been seeking is inevitable, namely, sex in either 
animal or vegetable life is derived from and had its origin in 
the duality of matter. 
What causes dual matter to combine and be productive 
would lead us into another enquiry as to the origin of life 
from matter ; but this we reserve for future consideration. 
