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Spencer (HERBERT how the law)

HERBERT how the law of evolution was gradually realized in life, mind, society, and morality. In pursuance of this comprehensive design Spencer published "First Principles" (1862); "Principles of Biology" (2 vols. 1864-1867); "Principles of Psychology" (2d ed. 2 vols. 1870- 1872); "Principles of Sociology" (3 vols. 1876-1896); "Principles of Ethics" (2 vols. 1879).

The method of his "System" is deductive; though the deductions, large and small, are always accompanied by inductive verifications. Metaphysically Spencer's system is founded on the doctrine of relativity deduced by Hamilton and Mansel from Kant, but carried by him, as he says, a step further. Along with the definite consciousness of things known in relation to one another there is implied an indefinite consciousness of an absolute existence, in the recognition of which as inscrutable science and religion find their reconciliation.