ey to the average reader a
distinct conception of the mature thought of Mr. Spencer upon these
complex themes. But of the general worth of this book, and of its
special application to the needs of great masses of our countrymen, we
emphasize our conviction. The calm deductions of reason are brought to
enforce the distinctive American doctrines in which the loyal citizen
has sentimental belief. Few characters will not feel strengthened by the
study of this very acute investigation of duty in social relations. The
task is not prematurely undertaken. The means of exact observation have
marvellously increased. There is everywhere apparent a demand for the
clear and wealthy mind that shall absorb the seemingly conflicting
phenomena and express the unity of law which connects them. The leading
idea upon which Mr. Spencer's system is based is that of the systematic
character of the Divine rule. He sees throughout the worlds of mind and
matter continual proofs of the progressive development which has lately
come to be expressed by the single word "evolution." Man is not the
degenerate descendant of demigods and heroes, but a promising child
subjected to a system of education of exhaustive excellence. The
circumstances about him are cruel only to be kind. He gradually yields
to their pressure, and is fashioned to higher power and a sweeter life.
More than any other merely philosophical writer, it seems to us that Mr.
Spencer assists the important work of the religionist. He demands
_faith_ sufficient to follow out a principle with unflinching
perseverance. He creates an absorbing interest in human welfare, showing
how all real personal advantage is united with the advantage of all.

There have been various attempts to give Mr. Spencer's writings a
doubtful fame with the American people. Some of these have been very
ingenious; others have had the first merit of sincerity, and nothing
else. No grand doctrine can be so expressed as to render impossible an
_ad captandum_ contradiction from some point or side. A sturdy
catechizing in the interest of some popular dogma will generally give
the casuist an apparent advantage over the seeker of knowledge for
itself alone. It is likewise in the power of a tolerable metaphysician
to set traps and dig pitfalls all over the ultimate grounds of any man's
belief. There are apparently crushing arguments against the assertor of
any conceivable religious creed, as well as against him who would base