move towards that which is of the same kind with themselves. Everything
which is earthy turns towards the earth, everything which is liquid flows
together, and everything which is of an aerial kind does the same, so
that they require something to keep them asunder, and the application of
force. Fire indeed moves upwards on account of the elemental fire, but it
is so ready to be kindled together with all the fire which is here, that
even every substance which is somewhat dry is easily ignited, because
there is less mingled with it of that which is a hindrance to ignition.
Accordingly, then, everything also which participates in the common
intelligent nature moves in like manner towards that which is of the same
kind with itself, or moves even more. For so much as it is superior in
comparison with all other things, in the same degree also is it more
ready to mingle with and to be fused with that which is akin to it.
Accordingly among animals devoid of reason we find swarms of bees, and
herds of cattle, and the nurture of young birds, and in a manner, loves;
for even in animals there are souls, and that power which brings them
together is seen to exert itself in the superior degree, and in such a
way as never has been observed in plants nor in stones nor in trees. But
in rational animals there are political communities and friendships, and
families and meetings of people; and in wars, treaties, and armistices.
But in the things which are still superior, even though they are
separated from one another, unity in a manner exists, as in the stars.
Thus the ascent to the higher degree is able to produce a sympathy even
in things which are separated. See, then, what now takes place; for only
intelligent animals have now forgotten this mutual desire and
inclination, and in them alone the property of flowing together is not
seen. But still, though men strive to avoid [this union], they are caught
and held by it, for their nature is too strong for them; and thou wilt
see what I say, if thou only observest. Sooner, then, will one find
anything earthy which comes in contact with no earthy thing, than a man