Studies of Man (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1874 edition. Excerpt: ...gratitude. When such accomplished and beneficent missionaries eventually attempt to explain the beauty and simplicity of the one true religion, their instruction would at least be listened to, and might gradually disperse some of the viler and grosser superstitions. Heathen nations, less unacquainted with art and science and industrial contrivances, might be attracted by some of the grander achievements of modern times. The instruments by the aid of which we make visible the minutest structures and far-distant objects invisible to the naked eye, and measure the magnitude and movements of the heavenly bodies, foretell eclipses, transits, and the advents of comets, control and employ the powers of chemistry and electricity; the railroads and locomotives with which distant places almost inaccessible may be easily reached; the steamers that can ascend rapid rivers: daily familiarity with these, and much more, must, with time and patience, predispose to lines of thought which cannot fail to diminish the range of superstition, previous to its final banishment from earth. But the full measure of glory is reserved for those nations and missionaries only who exemplify in conduct the truths which they hold, and the doctrines which they teach. Even those nations which, captivated by the wonders of science, and dazzled by its practical applications, are still disinclined to relinquish the superstitions of their fathers, might be unable to resist the fascination of their new visitors, so unlike those of whom they had had experience in former days, so pre-eminently courteous, humane, tolerant, sober, patient, and free from arrogant self-assertion. It is not to be expected that the young on leaving school will have very definite or comprehensive views of...