But if the succession of
worlds is established in the system of nature, it is in vain to look for
any thing higher in the origin of the earth. The result, therefore, of
this physical inquiry is, that we find no vestige of a beginning,--no
prospect of an end.
CHAPTER II.
An Examination of Mr KIRWAN'S Objections to the Igneous Origin of Stony
Substances.
A theory which is founded on a new principle, a theory which has to make
its way in the public mind by overturning the opinions commonly received
by philosophising men, and one which has nothing to recommend it but the
truth of its principles, and the view of wisdom or design to which it
leads, neither of which may perhaps be perceived by the generality of
people, such a theory, I say, must meet with the strongest opposition
from the prejudices of the learned, and from the superstition of those
who judge not for themselves in forming their notions, but look up to
men of science for authority. Such is the case with some part of the
Theory of the Earth, which I have given, and which will probably give
offence to naturalists who have espoused an opposite opinion.
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