20 Sept 1811

Jug. Util.

B.II. Under Revelation

Mischief

Ch.9. 7. Antipathy for unbelief

§.2. Unbelief as contempt.

(2)

1. From all difference of opinion displeasure.

2. In matter of fact if extraordinary, to negative affirmative an object of contempt.

If in the mind /breast/ of any unbeliever there by any such sentiment /affection/ as that of contempt, it is never is it God it is always man, that is the object of it.

On any occasion whatever, in relation to any matter of fact whatever, /or at any rate/ /especially of the fact have any thing extraordinary in it, where by two /when by two persons two opposite sides are taken, in the eyes of the one the affirmative being true in the eyes of the other the negative, of the judgment which pronounces the negative /as/ towards him whose decision is in favour of the affirmative, a sentiment of the nature of contempt, though contempt be too strong a word for it, is a natural not to say a necessary result.

On either side any an erroneous judgement is pro

tanto constitution and evidentiary of, an habitual state of mental weakness. By the weakness by which men are rendered prone to endure belief, & more [...?] is more exposed to deception, to imposture, than by the weakness by which he is disposed to endure disbelief. By /a habit of/ endue belief, a man is in proportion to the strength of it fitted to be made a prey to imposition. By a habit of undue disbelief whatsoever other disadvantageous effects many be attached to it that of being a prey to imposition is not among them. By such a label the tendency is rather to guard here against imposition that to expose him to it.

4.

Object of contempt if any not God but man.

5.

Fact extraordinary to believe of the negative d o of the affirmative as naturally in same degree an object of contempt.

6.

Cause—On either side erroneous judgment is mental weakness.

By affirmative belief a man is more exposed to deception than by negative. By a habit of unbelief of suspicion whatsoever be its bad effect, man is guarded against imposition.