The Relation of Science and Religion.pdf - Online Christian Library

MAN'S PLACE IN ?"l% WORLD. 251munication in two opposite directions, andthus may be capable of transmitting stimulusby the one channel or by the other, besideswhich it is possible, so far as structure is concerned,that such a cell may receive stimulusfrom one direction and send it forth in anopposite, thus proving a centre of intercommunication.On the same plan, a multipolarcell, being of greater size, and having fromfive to ten fibres proceeding from it, holds amore important place in the manifold ramificationsof cellular tissue, sending out stimulusin an increased variety of courses accordingto the number of the lines pertaining toit, and proving thus an intermediate stationin communication with a variety of .distinctcentres. No observation yet directed uponthe nerve cells has proved sufficient to establishall this, but the supposition is in strictharmony with what has been ascertained asto the laws governing the action of the nervesystem.When, however, an attempt is made toproceed farther, selecting the largest cells as" mind cells," * or cells generating thoughtand volition, there is a complete break away* Hackel's Evolulion of Man, vol. i. p. 129.