Manu indicates the various bases very significantly: "The whole Ve[d.]a
is the source of the Sacred Law [Revelation], next the tradition
[Conscience] and the virtuous conduct of those who know [Utility],
also the customs of holy men [Evolution] and self-satisfaction
[Mysticism]" (ii, 6.). It is true that happiness can result only by
harmony with law, harmony with the Divine Will which is embodied in
law--we need not quarrel over names--and the Science of Right Conduct,
"by establishing righteousness brings about Happiness". It may therefore
be truly said that the object of Morality is Universal Happiness. Why
the doing of a right action causes a flow of happiness in the doer, even
in the midst of a keen temporary pain entailed by it, we shall see under
"Mysticism".
The moment we base Morality on Evolution, we see that it must change
with the stage of evolution reached, and that the duty--that which ought
to be done--of the civilised and highly advanced man is not the same as
the duty of the savage. "One set of duties for men in the K[r.][t.]a
age, different ones in the Tre[t.][=a] and in the Dv[=a]para, and
another in the Kali." (_Manusm[r.][t.]i_, i, 85.) Different ages
bring new duties.
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