BOOK I PART IV
perceptions, produces the fiction of a contin-
ued existence; since that fiction, as well as the
identity, is really false, as is acknowledged by
all philosophers, and has no other effect than
to remedy the interruption of our perceptions,
which is the only circumstance that is contrary
to their identity. In the last place this propen-
sion causes belief by means of the present im-
pressions of the memory; since without the re-
membrance of former sensations, it is plain we
never should have any belief of the continued
existence of body. Thus in examining all these
parts, we find that each of them is supported
by the strongest proofs: and that all of them to-
gether form a consistent system, which is per-
fectly convincing. A strong propensity or incli-
nation alone, without any present impression,
will sometimes cause a belief or opinion. How
much more when aided by that circumstance?