Work of Natural Forces in Relation to Time

Abstract

IN the notice of the “Origin and Antiquity of Man” (NATURE, October 9), the remark that I have “returned to the manner of thinking which was prevalent before the days of Lyell” calls for some comment. It would be nearer correct to say that I have adopted the manner of thinking occasioned by the facts which have come to light since Lyell's day, and which may be succinctly described as that of regarding nature, not as a “uniformity,” but an “evolution.” Lyell's habit of regarding nature as a progression by infinitesimal steps has been corrected by later observations which reveal, at times certainly, a much more rapid rate of progress than he and his followers have been wont to admit. Lyell certainly failed to appreciate the activity even of the present forces of nature.