They are as much the outcome of molecular groupings and movements as the figures in a kaleidoscope are of the groupings and movements of the colored bits of glass.

They are things entirely by the way; and they can as little be considered links in any chain of causes as can the figure in a kaleidoscope be called the cause of the figure that succeeds it.
The conclusion, however, is so distasteful to most men, that but few of them can be brought even to face it, still less to accept it.

There is not a single physicist of eminence--none at least who has spoken publicly on the moral aspects of life--who has honestly and fairly considered it, and said plainly whether he accepts it, rejects it, or is in doubt about it.

On the contrary, instead of meeting this question, they all do their best to avoid it, and to hide it from themselves and others in a vague haze of mystery.

And there is a peculiarity in the nature of the subject that has made this task an easy one.