Sometimes it extinguishes the divine spark;
at other times it only increases it, transforming it into a
lighthouse which becomes man's lodestar for life."
"No doubt this is so. But the influence it has over the physiology
of the ear cannot be so overpowering after all."
"Quite the contrary. Only remember what a strong influence
climatic conditions, food and everyday surroundings have on the
complexion, vitality, capacity for reproduction, and so on, and
you will see that you are mistaken. Apply this same law of gradual
modification to the purely psychic element in man, and the results
will be the same. Change the education and you will change the
capacities of a human being.... For instance, you believe in the
powers of gymnastics, you believe that special exercise can almost
transform the human body. We go one step higher. The experience
of centuries shows that gymnastics exist for the soul as well as
for the body. But what the soul's gymnastics are is our secret.
What is it that gives to the sailor the sight of an eagle, that
endows the acrobat with the skill of a monkey, and the wrestler
with muscles of iron? Practice and habit. Then why should not
we suppose the same possibilities in the soul of the man as well
as in his body? Perhaps on the grounds of modern science--which
either dispenses with the soul altogether, or does not acknowledge
in it a life distinct from the life of the body.... "
"Please do not speak in this way, Takur.
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