Hinton - The Fourth Dimension.pdf

APPLICATION TO KANT’S THEORY OF EXPERIENCE 115
when any axis becomes any other, such a set is trans-
1b2a3c 1a2b3c
formed into itself, its identity
is not submerged, but rises
superior to the chaos of its
1c2a3b
1a2c3b constituents?
Such a set can be found.
Consider the set represented
1c2b3a 1b2c3a
Fig. 62.
in fig. 62, and written down
in the first of the two lines—
Self-
1a 2b 3c 1b 2a 3c 1c 2a 3b 1c 2b 3a 1b 2c 3a 1a 2c 3b
conjugate. { 1c 2b 3a 1b 2c 3a 1a 2c 3b 1a 2b 3c 1b 2a 3c 1c 2a 3b
If now a change into c and c into a, we get the set in
the second line, which has the same members as are in the
upper line. Looking at the diagram we see that it would
correspond simply to the turning of the figure as a
whole.* Any arbitrary change of the points on the axes,
or of the axes themselves, reproduces the same set.
Thus, a function, by which a random, an unordered consciousness
could give an ordered and systematic one, can
be represented. It is noteworthy that it is a system of
selection. If out of all the alternative forms that only is
attended to which is self-conjugate, an ordered consciousness
is formed. A selection gives a feature of permanence.
Can we say that the permanent consciousness is this
selection?
An analogy between Kant and Darwin comes into light.
That which is swings clear of the fleeting, in virtue of its
presenting a feature of permanence. There is no need
to suppose any function of “attending to.” A consciousness
capable of giving an account of itself is one
which is characterised by this combination. All combinations
exist—of this kind is the consciousness which
can give an account of itself. And the very duality which
* These figures are described more fully, and extended, in the next
chapter.