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We begin with the interpreta- tion of things in an animistic way, as caused by the operation of superhuman agencies ; we advance from this to an inter- pretation by metaphysical conception of substances or forms ; and finally we learn that we are only able to study the laws or orders in which the objects of our experience occur. The view of Comte, however, like most other forms of Agnosticism, is accompanied by the recognition of an order of development in the universe that we apprehend ; and the highest that we know in this order of development is found in the life and aspirations of Humanity. This, rather than an unknowable Absolute, should be taken as the object of our worship and devotion. This kind of Humanism connects somewhat closely with the more recent theory of Pragmatism. 11 Pragmatism. prev next |