2p13l7sc.md (1496B)
1 We thus see, how a composite individual may be affected 2 in many different ways, and preserve its nature notwithstanding. 3 Thus far we have conceived an individual as composed of bodies 4 only distinguished one from the other in respect of motion and 5 rest, speed and slowness; that is, of bodies of the most simple 6 character. If, however, we now conceive another individual 7 composed of several individuals of diverse natures, we shall find 8 that the number of ways in which it can be affected, without 9 losing its nature, will be greatly multiplied. Each of its parts 10 would consist of several bodies, and therefore (by Lemma vi.) 11 each part would admit, without change to its nature, of quicker 12 or slower motion, and would consequently be able to transmit its 13 motions more quickly or more slowly to the remaining parts. If 14 we further conceive a third kind of individuals composed of 15 individuals of this second kind, we shall find that they may be 16 affected in a still greater number of ways without changing their 17 actuality. We may easily proceed thus to infinity, and conceive 18 the whole of nature as one individual, whose parts, that is, all 19 bodies, vary in infinite ways, without any change in the 20 individual as a whole. I should feel bound to explain and 21 demonstrate this point at more length, if I were writing a 22 special treatise on body. But I have already said that such is 23 not my object; I have only touched on the question, because it 24 enables me to prove easily that which I have in view. 25 26