Man, however, does not rule over one tool only, but over many, which
he applies for different purposes, and from which he can choose. Man,
because of these tools, is not like the animal. The animal never
advances beyond the tools and weapons with which it was born, while man
makes his tools and changes them at will. Man, being an animal using
different tools, must possess the mental ability to choose them. In his
head various thoughts come and go, his mind considers all the tools
and the consequences of their application, and his actions depend upon
these considerations. He also combines one thought with another, and
holds fast to the idea that fits in with his purpose.
Animals have not this capacity; it would be useless for them for they
would not know what to do with it. On account of their bodily form,
their actions are circumscribed within narrow bounds. The lion can only
jump upon his prey, but can not think of catching it by running after
it. The hare is so formed that it can run; it has no other means of
defense although it may like to have. These animals have nothing to
consider except the moment of jumping or running. Every animal is so
formed as to fit into some definite place. Their actions must become
strong habits. These habits are not unchangeable. Animals are not
machines, when brought into different circumstances they may acquire
different habits. It is not in the quality of their brains, but in the
formation of their bodies that animal restrictions lie. The animal’s
action is limited by its bodily form and surroundings, and consequently
it has little need for reflection. To reason would therefore be useless
for it and would only lead to harm rather than to good.
Man, on the other hand, must possess this ability because he exercises
discretion in the use of tools and weapons, which he chooses according
to particular requirements. If he wants to kill the fleet hare, he
takes the bow and arrow; if he meets the bear, he uses the axe, and
if he wants to break open a certain fruit he takes a hammer. When
threatened by danger, man must consider whether he shall run away or
defend himself by fighting with weapons. This ability to think and to
consider is indispensable to man in his use of artificial tools.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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