Page:Illustrations of the comparative anatomy of the nervous system.djvu/7



Author having had frequent occasions for referring to Comparative Anatomy during the progress of his publications on the Nervous System, he conceived that representations of his dissections might interest many, and especially assist those who were about to enter upon similar pursuits. But, on so comprehensive a subject, it became difficult to determine upon an arrangement that would make a work concise and useful. After much consideration, it appeared probable that this intention would be in a great measure answered by selecting such examples as would explain the scheme on which the nervous system is generally founded; for thus its practical investigation would be facilitated, and the extension of knowledge promoted in the best and most efficient manner.

It is desirable that researches by actual dissection should be encouraged as much as possible, as thus only can the prospective advantages of science be consulted. If books be entirely confided in, all improvement must