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in a quality similarity is indicated as the process of recollection. When it is interested in the surroundings of an object contiguity would determine the choice of the paths. In other words, when we dwell on a general idea similar memories are recalled, but when we linger on an object its surroundings and settings are called
up.
FAITH KNOWLEDGE AND CONDUCT
The formation of the associations of similarity is the work of the mental impulses in the first instance; for all resemblances are cognized by the same general qualities. As for instance, we first detect the fact that an object is white with the aid of the general idea of whiteness; and then proceed to distinguish the particular shade of that colour. All these impulses in the mind are grouped under the visual section, and have a common centre for their perception. And since general whiteness is common to them all and is actually perceived at the beginning, its variations and shades naturally range themselves round it. Even the newly formed impulses, whether complex or otherwise, would be ranged round the primary general impulse for the same reason.
As for contiguity, it is actually given in the very first impression, but is suppressed by the attention being fixed on a part of the sensation. Hence it arises merely by the relaxation of attention. The sense of familiarity with an object is due to the verification of the recalled detail in the object. In cognition the details are
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