In theory, no reason can be more unreasonable, but, in fact,
there is none more strong. With certain minds, under certain
conditions, it becomes absolutely irresistible. I am not more
certain that I breathe, than that the assurance of the wrong or
error of any action is often the one unconquerable force which
impels us, and alone impels us to its prosecution. Nor will this
overwhelming tendency to do wrong for the wrong's sake, admit of
analysis, or resolution into ulterior elements. It is a radical, a
primitive impulse-elementary. It will be said, I am aware, that when
we persist in acts because we feel we should not persist in them,
our conduct is but a modification of that which ordinarily springs
from the combativeness of phrenology. But a glance will show the
fallacy of this idea. The phrenological combativeness has for its
essence, the necessity of self-defence. It is our safeguard against
injury. Its principle regards our well-being; and thus the desire to
be well is excited simultaneously with its development.
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