We must seek further for a solid basis of morality.
* * * * *
IV
EVOLUTION
We come now to the sure basis of morality, the bedrock of Nature,
whereon Morality may be built beyond all shaking and change, built as a
Science with recognised laws, and in a form intelligible and capable of
indefinite expansion. Evolution is recognised as the method of Nature,
her method in all her realms, and according to the ascertained laws
of Nature, so far as they are known, all wise and thoughtful people
endeavour to guide themselves. In making Morality a Science, we give
it a binding force, and render it of universal application; moreover,
we incorporate into it all the fragments of truth which exist in other
systems, and which have lent to them their authority, their appeal to
the intellect and the heart.
Let us first define Morality. It is the science of human relations, the
Science of Conduct, and its laws, as inviolable, as sure, as changeless,
as all other laws of Nature, can be discovered and formulated. Harmony
with these laws, like harmony with all other natural laws, is the
condition of happiness, for in a realm of law none can move without
pain while disregarding law.
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