BOOK I PART IV
If we desire similar instances, it will not be
very difficult to find them. The present sub-
ject of metaphysics will supply us abundantly.
The same argument, which would have been
esteemed convincing in a reasoning concerning
history or politics, has little or no influence in
these abstruser subjects, even though it be per-
fectly comprehended; and that because there is
required a study and an effort of thought, in
order to its being comprehended: And this ef-
fort of thought disturbs the operation of our
sentiments, on which the belief depends. The
case is the same in other subjects. The strain-
ing of the imagination always hinders the reg-
ular flowing of the passions and sentiments. A
tragic poet, that would represent his heroes as
very ingenious and witty in their misfortunes,
would never touch the passions. As the emo-
tions of the soul prevent any subtile reason-