CHAP. IV - OF KNOWING

Summary

The inseparable propriety of time, which is ever more and more to disclose truth.

—Adv. of Learning.

THUS astronomy exhibits an instance of a false belief respecting the universe, due to man's own condition. A belief established by universal consent, fortified by powerful arguments, and lasting many ages. Yet a belief fertile in practical evils, and necessary to be removed before man could use the world aright. Astronomy shows us also the simple and natural mode, of observation and learning from nature, by which such false beliefs are rectified. It should not therefore be urged against the opinion that the fact of nature is spiritual, that there is universal belief against it, and a natural persuasion of the strongest kind; nor should it prejudice the inquiry that so long a period has elapsed without the error being rectified. All these things we know may be; they have been before; it is natural that they should be. And if more ages have passed before man learns that he wants life, than before he discovered that the earth was not steadfast in the centre of the sphere, it may be remembered that the work is greater, and demands a larger preparation.

And if there appear to be strong arguments against this opinion, and much difficulty in admitting it, it may not be amiss to recall to mind that the true astronomy, basing itself upon the one certain argument that the perceived motion could not be in the heavens, yet met with many difficulties, and was opposed by strong arguments.