Evolution of Function in the Mammalian Organism

Abstract

THE life of the mammal is a synthesis of many diverse functions. They range from the diges-i tion of porridge to the performance of Brahms, from snoring to the niceties of mathematical analysis. Here I am concerned neither with the higher faculties of the mind nor with the lower vegetative functions of the body; but merely with that intermediate region of activity which concerns itself with the muscular movements-getting about and the like-these we share with our mammalian relations generally.