Again, we all have a full consciousness of three things—we love, we think, we act. But few have a scientific knowledge of the means employed by which mind acts on matter. There are such varied forms and circumstances controlling its development, that we need not marvel at anything that comes within the sphere of our observation. As we are brought face to face with almost every possible condition of the nervous system, our opportunities for investigating the various manifestations of nervous energy, its source and supply, may we not equal any other specialty in solving the great problem of cause and effect manifesting nervous energy? As the brain is the seat of all sensation, I briefly present some of the best authenticated views of its organization. I think you all will agree with me that it is wonderfully constructed by Infinite Wisdom for the development of the finite mind. In the elucidation of my subject, let us not forget the fact that the blood has much to do with the various conditions of the nervous system. It holds, or should contain in solution, all the elements necessary for the growth and sustenance of every organ in the body; it is both a receiver and a giver; it is fed from what we eat and drink, without which it cannot perform the office intended.
THE BRAIN.
The brain is divided by the septum into two lobes, right and left sides; also, into the cerebrum and the cerebellum, front and back sides. Phrenologists divide the lobes into about forty convolutions, assign to each a distinct office, and by careful observation of each as to their development, profess to know individual character, and point out what kind of occupation one, by nature, is best fitted for.
In 1840, Dr. Sherwood, of New York, by ingenious experiments, demonstrated the fact that the brain has four large poles, two in the cerebrum and two in the cerebellum, and from these proceed not only the convolutions, but every nerve in the body. By these, and experiments in animal magnetism, he maintained that animal magnetism is the motive power of the human system, and without it there can be no connection between mind and matter.
In the Fall of 1844, I invited several of our most eminent physicians to meet me at my office to witness some experiments in magnetism. My subject for demonstration was a young man of unimpeachable character, twenty-three years of age. My visitors were very skeptical on the subject of magnetism. There had been some public exhibitions, but the result did not satisfy them.
I said, as the science of phrenology is ridiculed by some, I wished first to exhibit each convolution of the brain, in a state of exaltation, while he is as wide awake as we are. To prevent any suspicion of collusion, I handed them a chart containing the names of the different convolutions of the brain, and requested them to write on paper any question or the name of the organ, for me to excite.
The first paper had on it mirth. I placed the point of my finger over the organ, and he immediately broke out into an uncontrollable fit of laughter. I passed off the influence and he instantly became calm. They asked him what he laughed at. He said he did not know; he could not help it.
The second paper had on it veneration. I excited the organ, and he immediately bowed his head and assumed the attitude of the most zealous pietist, and appeared to be in earnest prayer.