Stages of Evolution
Steps in the progress of evolution—great stages which have been likened by Sir James Crichton Browne to exceptional Mendelian Mutations—may be rather imaginatively rehearsed somewhat thus:—
Starting with
The uniform Ether of Space, we can first suppose
The specialisation or organisation of specks of ether into Electrons; followed by
Associated systems of electrons, constituting atoms of Matter; and so
The whole inorganic Universe.
Then, as a new and astonishing departure, comes—
The cell, or protoplasmic complex which Life can construct and utilise for manifestation and development. [33]
And after that
A brain cell, which can become the physical organ for the rudiments of Mind. Followed by
Further mental development until Consciousness becomes possible. With subsequent
Sublimation of consciousness into Ethics, Philosophy, and Religion.
We need not insist on these or any other stages for our present purpose; yet something of the kind would seem to have occurred, in the mysterious course of time.