BOOK II PART III
termined by chance; or when, though the ob-
ject be already certain, yet it is uncertain to our
judgment, which finds a number of proofs on
each side of the question. Both these kinds of
probabilities cause fear and hope; which can
only proceed from that property, in which they
agree, viz, the uncertainty and fluctuation they
bestow on the imagination by that contrariety
of views, which is common to both.
It is a probable good or evil, that commonly
produces hope or fear; because probability, be-
ing a wavering and unconstant method of sur-
veying an object, causes naturally a like mix-
ture and uncertainty of passion. But we may
observe, that wherever from other causes this
mixture can be produced, the passions of fear
and hope will arise, even though there be no
probability; which must be allowed to be a con-