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Synopsis
This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1862 edition. Excerpt: ... CHAPTER XIII. THE INSTABILITY OF THE HOMOGENEOUS.• § 109. Thus far our steps towards the interpretation of Evolution have been preparatory. We have dealt with the factors of the process, rather than the process itself. After the ultimate truth that, Matter, Motion, and Force, as cognizable by human intelligence, can neither come into existence nor cease to exist, we have considered certain other ultimate truths concerning the modes in which Force and Motion are manifested during the changes they produce in Matter. Now we have to study the changes themselves. We have here to analyze that re-arrangement in the parts of Matter, which occurs under the influence of Force, that is unchangeable in quantity though changeable in form, through the medium of Motion taking place rhythmically along lines of least resistance. The proposition which comes first in logical order, is, that some re-arrangement must result; and this proposition may be best dealt with under the more specific shape, that the condition of homogeneity is a condition of unstable equilibrium. First, as to the meaning of the terms; respecting which some readers may need explanation. The phrase unstable equilibrium is one used in mechanics to express a balance of forces of such kind, that the interference of any further force, however minute, will destroy the arrangement previously • The idea developed in this chapter originally formed part of an article on "Transcendental Physiology," publishcl in 1857. See Essays, pp. 279--290. subsisting ; and bring about a totally different arrangement. Thus, a stick poised on its lower end is in unstable equilibrium : however exactly it may be placed in a perpendicular position, as soon as it is left to itself it begins, at...
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Book Description
In 1862, philosopher Herbert Spencer published this preamble to a planned series of publications on biology, psychology, sociology and morality. In it, he argues that religion and science can be reconciled in the underlying unity from which the visible complexity of the universe has evolved.
About the Author
Herbert Spencer (1820-1903) was an English philosopher, political theorist, sociological theorist, author, and editor. He served in the later capacity for the "Economist" from 1843 to 1853. He is perhaps best known for applying evolutionary theory to social development and coined the term "survival of the fittest." His best known works are "Man versus the State" and the multi-volume "System of Synthetic Philosophy".
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First Principles
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