A Treatise of Human Nature

(Jeff_L) #1

BOOK II PART I


are precisely alike. The manner and order of
their appearance may be the same. The dif-
ferent degrees of their force and vivacity are,
therefore, the only particulars, that distinguish
them: And as this difference may be removed,
in some measure, by a relation betwixt the im-
pressions and ideas, it is no wonder an idea
of a sentiment or passion, may by this means
be inlivened as to become the very sentiment
or passion. The lively idea of any object al-
ways approaches is impression; and it is cer-
tain we may feel sickness and pain from the
mere force of imagination, and make a malady
real by often thinking of it. But this is most re-
markable in the opinions and affections; and
it is there principally that a lively idea is con-
verted into an impression. Our affections de-
pend more upon ourselves, and the internal
operations of the mind, than any other impres-

Free download pdf