Introduction to the Philosophy of Saint Augustine
the elements or from all of them together or from a combination of some of them. But on this problem we agreed that there is no more sense in asking what the soul is derived from than in asking from what earth or any other single element is derived. For it must be understood that although God made the soul, it has a certain essence of its own, which is not composed of earth nor of fire nor of air nor of water; or we may be forced to the conclusion that God gave earth its own exclusive individuality but failed to give to the soul that which makes it soul and nothing else. But if you want a definition of the soul, and so ask me—what is the soul? I have a ready answer. It seems to me to be a special substance, endowed with reason, adapted to rule the body.
Ev. . . . Wherefore, please take up now the problem in which I am intensely interested: if the soul does not have a spatial magnitude commensurate with that of the body, why is it that it feels wherever the body is touched?
CHAPTER 23 Tentative definition of sensation. How sight operates
41. Aug. All right, let us tackle that problem, as you wish, but you will have to give me much closer attention than you may think necessary. So, collect your wits as best you can and answer me what is your idea of "sensation" which the soul exercises through the body. For "sensation" is the proper term to use here.
Ev. I have always heard that there are five senses: seeing, hearing, smelling, tasting, and touching. I do not know what more to answer.
Aug. That division is very ancient, and it is the usual popular presentation of it. But I would have you define what sensation itself is, so that all these may be included in one simple definition, and nothing else that is not sensation may be understood under it. However, if you cannot do this, I shall not press you. This one thing you can do—and that will be enough—you can either disprove or approve my definition.
Ev. With that method I shall perhaps not fail you, so far as I am able. But even that is not always easy.
Aug. Now then, listen: I think sensation is the soul's not being unaware of the body's experience.
Ev. That definition satisfies me.
Aug. Stand by it as your own, then, and defend it while I disprove it briefly.