BOOK I PART III
frequently observe in our degrees of belief and
assurance, and which never fails to take place,
though disclaimed by philosophers. An exper-
iment, that is recent and fresh in the memory,
affects us more than one that is in some mea-
sure obliterated; and has a superior influence
on the judgment, as well as on the passions.
A lively impression produces more assurance
than a faint one; because it has more original
force to communicate to the related idea, which
thereby acquires a greater force and vivacity. A
recent observation has a like effect; because the
custom and transition is there more entire, and
preserves better the original force in the com-
munication. Thus a drunkard, who has seen
his companion die of a debauch, is struck with
that instance for some time, and dreads a like
accident for himself: But as the memory of it
decays away by degrees, his former security