THE IDEAL THEORY OF BERKELEY. AND THE REAL WORLD. FREE THOUGHTS ON BERKELEY, IDEALISM, AND METAPHYSICS. BY THOMAS HUGHES. LONDON: HAMILTON, ADAMS, AND CO. PREFACE. B 1348 185 ABOUT one-fourth of this volume was published some months since, in a small spirited Irish periodical. It is now given to the public not only enlarged in matter, but also altered in form. I am not so contracted in view, and vain in expectation, as to think that it will settle the vexed question between the realist and the idealist. If it will in any way advance knowledge, and cast a ray of light on any dark spot on the canvass of human vision, it will satisfy my expectation and wish. The book is not intended for the advanced and the erudite; but for those who aspire after advancement and knowledge, and receive with gratitude any light and assistance, from whatever quarter they may come. The intent is, to give within a narrow compass, some acquaintance with Berkeley's theory, to those who have not studied his works for themselves: it aims also to help and encourage the student of metaphysical science, in his lonely and persevering efforts. There is one ambitional thought running through the volume, the universal unity of all truth and knowledge. Though the book is on metaphysics, metaphysical phrases and formularies are avoided; it is intended for the unsophisticated and unmetaphysical reader, as well as to assist those humble students who wish to travel forward in the path of truth and science. The notes are added to give more variety and interest to the ordinary reader. As people value things by their character and inherent qualities, and not by their appearance and what may be said of them, so books, by the discreet and intelligent, will be thus estimated, and not by what may be said of them in their prefaces; and a different verdict I cannot reasonably wish for this volume. A book becomes a member of a large family, the moment it is given to the public, and an object of blame or praise, as its character is, or as the views and taste of its critics may be; and, in some degree or other, without a doubt, this unpretending volume will share the same common lot. And, in common with all natural feeling, I cannot but wish well to my own: yet, if it happens to have praise, it will not elate; but, if otherwise, it will not distress. T. H. February 8th, 1865. |