vi

CHAPTER IX.

Operation of the propensity to enlarge the idea of

self exhibited in the conduct of the Heathen

philosophers: In the disobedience of the Jews:

In the conduct of the Pharisees, &c. Tendency

of divine revelation to counteract this propensity

illustrated,

CHAPTER X.

Effects produced by the inspiration of the Holy

Spirit. Effects of the selfish principle, in corrupt-

ing the purity of religious faith: In producing

bigotry and intolerance. Conclusion.

ESSAY V.

INQUIRY INTO THE MEANS APPOINTED BY

́PROVIDENCE FOR THE DEVELOPMENT AND

CULTIVATION OF THE BENEVOLENT AFFEC-

TIONS.

CHAPTER I.

Preliminary observations.

Means appointed by

Providence for the development and cultivation

106

145

of the affections. Agency of attention in deve-

loping the affections in the infant heart. Illus-

trations.

199

CHAPTER II.

Correspondence between the degree of attention

bestowed, and the degree of sympathy produced,

illustrated. Theory of Mr A. Smith. Paternal

affection. Examples.

CHAPTER III.

232

Consequences of an imperfect cultivation of the

affections. Cause of this imperfection investi-

gated. Inefficacy of the sympathy excited

through the medium of imagination, exemplified, 268

CHAPTER IV.

Imperfect operation of benevolence exemplified in

palliating vice. False sentiment; its effects illus-

trated. Compassion to animals. Source of that

tenderness, when partial, and confined to objects

of any particular class,

302

viii

CHAPTER V.

Of the benefits derived from the exercise of judg-

ment, as guiding the operations of the affections.

Examples. Disappointments in friendship and

love, &c. &c. Ill-directed efforts of benevo-

lence, intended to augment the sum of national

happiness and prosperity,

327

CHAPTER VI.

Obstacles presented by the operation of the selfish

principle to the development of the benevolent

affections. Consequent inadequacy of the means

provided by nature for their cultivation. Addi-

tional means afforded by divine revelation. Il-

lustrations.

354

CHAPTER VII.

Consideration of the obstacles which impede the

operation of the affections which divine revela-

tion is calculated to produce, proceeding, 1. From

confining the attention to certain of the divine at-

tributes; 2. From confining the attention to ex-

planations given by men, on points of doubtful

interpretation. Illustration.

394

CHAPTER VIII.

Consideration of the means afforded in the positive institutions of religion, for cultivating the benevolent affections. Comparison of the principles

derived from sympathy with the opinions of mankind, and the principles derived from religion,

CONCLUSION,

h

419

447