Is truth the reality itself,--the nature of things falling under the knowledge of man ?--or is it nothing but an appearance,--a conception, necessary or arbitrary, of the human mind?
"4.

To expound and discuss the most celebrated opinions, ancient and modern, on the problem of Certitude, and to follow them out into their theoretical and practical consequences.

To subject to a critical and profound examination the great monuments of Skepticism,--the writings of Sextus, Huet, Hume, and Kant.
"5.

To inquire what are, in spite of the assaults of Skepticism, the certain truths which ought to subsist in the Philosophy of our times." Such was the comprehensive _programme_ of the French Institute; and many circumstances concurred at the time to impart a peculiar interest to the competition.

M.Franck's volume[233] contains the Report of the Section of Philosophy on the papers which had been prepared, and offers a careful analysis and critical estimate of their contents.