animals, but likewise the structure and operation of the softer parts,
including the muscles, integuments, membranes, &c.; the nature, motion,
and circulation of the various fluids, their reciprocal effects, the
changes through which they pass, the deposits which they leave in
various parts of the system; the functions of respiration, digestion,
and assimilation,--all would find appropriate symbols and
representatives in the notation, even as it now stands, without those
additions of which, however, it is easily susceptible. Indeed, when we
reflect for what a very different purpose this scheme of symbols was
contrived, we cannot refrain from expressing our wonder that it should
seem, in all respects, as if it had been designed expressly for the
purposes of anatomy and physiology.
[Footnote 15: Phil. Trans. 1820, Part III. p. 250, on a method of
expressing by signs the action of machinery.]
[Footnote 16: This discovery has been more justly appreciated by
scientific men abroad. It was, almost immediately after its publication,
adopted as the topic of lectures, in an institution on the Continent for
the instruction of Civil Engineers.]
Another of the uses which the slightest attention to the details of this
notation irresistibly forces upon our notice, is to exhibit, in the form
of a connected plan or map, the organization of an extensive factory, or
any great public institution, in which a vast number of individuals are
employed, and their duties regulated (as they generally are or ought to
be) by a consistent and well-digested system. The mechanical notation is
admirably adapted, not only to express such an organized connexion of
human agents, but even to suggest the improvements of which such
organization is susceptible--to betray its weak and defective points,
and to disclose, at a glance, the origin of any fault which may, from
time to time, be observed in the working of the system. Our limits,
however, preclude us from pursuing this interesting topic to the extent
which its importance would justify. We shall be satisfied if the hints
here thrown out should direct to the subject the attention of those who,
being most interested in such an enquiry, are likely to prosecute it
with greatest success.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
Reviews
Reviews
No reviews yet
Be the first to share your thoughts on this work.
Join the Discussion
Join the discussion
Sign in to leave a comment or review.
Sign InorCreate an account