An analysis of the methods pursued by criminals seems to fit the case of the libertine remarkably well. Both desire to get advantages without due efforts; both think that they will gain the enjoyments while escaping the penalties; both fail to take a general survey and look only at the consequences of the particular act; both are defective in their consideration of what is just and right for all concerned; both actually obtain immediate gratifications and lose ultimate satisfactions ; both acquire natures which are incapable of true happiness; and both are hostile to the harmony of social life.
The wholly selfish character of such law-breakers merits the sharpest reprobation of communities where the social sentiments are at all rational. Surely the needs of the human species are paramount, and we must estimate sexual relations as right or wrong according as to whether they conduce to public welfare, or to social degradation and extinction.
The man who subordinates his lower impulses and elevates the higher components of his manhood; who truly follows his conscience; and who organizes high sentiments in others, is an inestimable blessing to the world. It is not too much to demand this of every citizen.
Those who are observant will see that the most powerful and marvellous feelings of which human nature is capable grow out of the sexual instinct, and that within the limits of this sphere of action are to be found all that is of the supremest interest in life.
" Hunger and Love" are conjoined throughout all animal life, and in innumerable instances, both among animals and mankind the Mother love, and even Father love, asserts itself as even a stronger force than the individualistic aim of self preservation. Life itself is frequently subservient to the interests of offspring.
Nature never overlooks nor pardons a mistake, and punishes ignorance as severely as intentional transgression.