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DISCUSSION. 
711 
simple. Conscious life begins, for Wundt, with the simple impulse—i.e., 
with a mechanically conditioned movement, in which, however, both toned 
sensation and motion are apperceived. Not, of course, that the three pro- 
cesses of sensation, affection, and conation are already differentiated in the 
protozoan consciousness. But they are present in germ. From the 
.mpulse, which possesses in some measure the characteristics both of vol- 
antary and of reflex action, there are two lines of development : one of 
degeneration, to the physiological reflex; the other of ascent, to the decis- 
lon after deliberation. 
Such, in brief, is Wundt’s Psychology of Will. No such cut-and- 
dried presentation as I have given will be found in his manifold publica- 
tions. Rather does he approach the matter in various works from the 
standpoints of various sciences ; so that often there occur seeming contra- 
dictions in his doctrine, statements which are, however, easily reconcilable 
with the central thesis, if their context and special setting are noted. 
Wundt does not attempt to be “easy” ; rather has he the fault of so many 
constructive thinkers, that of regarding a difficult problem, which has 
oecome for himself from long consideration familiar almost to contempt, 
1s equally well-known to and apprehensible by his audience. Hence many 
obscurities and some carelessnesses in the course of his exposition. The 
oresent paper may, I hope, serve as a sketch-map, based on his survey, of 
che most difficult field in psychology to English-speaking students, as that 
of Dr. Kiilpe * has been to so many Germans. Two things should, at 
any rate, have been now made clear : that Wundt’s Psychology of Voli- 
ion is indeed empirical, and that it 1s—intelligible. 
DISCUSSION. 
Dr. BOARDMAN : Freedom is an ultimate fact. It is sui generis, It is known intui- 
iively to consciousness. Much has certainly been determined and stated concerning its 
conditions, and results, by philosophy. Plato and Aristotle affirmed important truth con- 
serning it. Much has been added in modern, and as it seems to me in recent, times. 
All concerning it can never be known to finite minds. Its relations to environment, 
inward and outward, to the universe, and to God, will invite study, will reward labor, 
and will forever extend beyond the reach of finite investigation. Notwithstanding the 
obscurities of Wundt’s treatment of it, we catch many profound statements. Hisapper- 
ception seems to be substantially voluntary and resolute attention to an object. Liberty 
is far more than this. It is not mere intellect, or the object chosen. There is a third 
2lement, choice, not accounted for in either of the others, It is a distinct, primitive, 
fundamental activity : a su¢ generis activity of the soul. 
. A 
¥ Phil. Stud., ll. cc. Also procurable as off-print.