2854. The ability to contemplate and be moved by purposes distinguishes the human being from brute animals

I spoke with spirits, saying that it is purposes in human beings that guide them and which they strive to achieve; and that it is the contemplation of purposes that distinguishes the human being from the brutes. The brute animal is ignorant of the ends, due to the nature of its soul. But a human being should know the ends, and strive for them, contemplate them, and be moved by them. Therefore, since the final and prime purpose of human beings is life eternal, and since it is their nature to be able to contemplate purposes, therefore unless they contemplate the true purpose, or their eternal state, and thus the Lord, they are not human beings. 1748, 17 Aug.* * Possibly for "19 Aug."