Tennyson.
SYNOPSIS OF CHAPTER I.
This Introductory Chapter consists of three parts. The first lays down the questions proposed, and shows the necessity of asking them. The second illustrates what may be termed in Art-phrase the motives of the Essay. The third briefly describes its method, and explains the readiest mode of studying Natural Theology.
Analysis—Inquiries underlying Natural Theology—Way in which they are answered by our Instinctive Persuasions—How far this answer is sufficing; how far influential.
Phases of Doubt; undeclared Scepticism and Indifferentism—Origin and leaders of the modern Sceptical and Materialistic Schools—Doubts of Intellect distinguished from Scepticism of Immorality—Social dangers and alarms exemplified.
Method of this Essay, and requests as to the mode of reading it—Divisions of Argument; their separate and consilient effect.
Additional Notes and Illustrations.
A.—The Right Honourable W. E. Gladstone and others on Modern Scepticism.
B.—On Corruption of the Judgment by misdirected Moral Sentiments.