. . . In regard to all this class of subjects, I am of the opinion of
Goethe, that "it is just as absurd to deny the facts of spiritualism
now as it was in the Middle Ages to ascribe them to the Devil." I
think Mr. Owen attributes too much value to his facts. I do not think
the things contributed from the ultra-mundane sphere are particularly
valuable, apart from the evidence they give of continued existence
after death.
I do not think there is yet any evidence to warrant the idea that they
are a supplement or continuation of the revelations of Christianity,
but I do regard them as an interesting and curious study in
psychology, and every careful observer like Mr. Owen ought to be
welcomed to bring in his facts. With this I shall send you my
observations on Mr. Owen's books, from the "Christian Union." I am
perfectly aware of the frivolity and worthlessness of much of the
revealings purporting to come from spirits. In my view, the worth or
worthlessness of them has nothing to do with the question of fact.
Do invisible spirits speak in any wise,--wise or foolish?--is the
question _a priori_. I do not know of any reason why there should
not be as many foolish virgins in the future state as in this. As I am
a believer in the Bible and Christianity, I don't need these things as
confirmations, and they are not likely to be a religion to me. I
regard them simply as I do the phenomena of the Aurora Borealis, or
Darwin's studies on natural selection, as curious studies into nature.
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