Human physiology / by John Elliotson ; with which is incorporated, much of the elementary part of the Institutiones physiologiae of J. F. Blumenbach, M.D., F.R.S.

  • Elliotson, John, 1791-1868.
Date:
1835
Catalogue details

Licence: Public Domain Mark

Credit: Human physiology / by John Elliotson ; with which is incorporated, much of the elementary part of the Institutiones physiologiae of J. F. Blumenbach, M.D., F.R.S. Source: Wellcome Collection.

Provider: This material has been provided by The University of Glasgow Library. The original may be consulted at The University of Glasgow Library.

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    VJ CHAP. III. general view of the organs, functions, and powers of THE HUMAN BODY. The proximate solids are made up into various organs ; and the operation of an organ is termed its function. While a part is performing its functions, and even while it only- remains in a condition fit for the performance of its functions, changes of its constituent particles go on; indeed, many func- tions are in a great measure but chemical changes. The sepai- ation of one portion of matter must occasion the addition of another to be necessary. Hence organs are framed for receiving matter from without, and for changing it variously, so as to fit it to become a portion of the fluids of the body; for distributing it through the body, and rendering it a part of the body; and for the separation and elimination of those particles which in the course of the chemical changes must quit the system. We thus observe organs of reception, assimilation, circulation, nutrition, secretion, and excretion. As individuals last but a limited time, the species is preserved by the generation of new beings from individuals. Organs of generation are therefore framed; but this function is merely circulation, secretion, excretion, and nutrition. We perceive external objects and circumstances; are conscious of much within ourselves; we think, desire, and exert volition. The organs of these functions are termed the nervous system. It exists in mass, and is also ramified throughout the frame. Im- pressions upon the extremities of its ramifications, as well as upon these in their course, are conveyed along them to the mass, where they are perceived; and the mandates of the will are conveyed from the mass along the ramifications to fleshy organs of motion, termed muscles; and the influence of emotion is also conveyed from the mass along the ramifications to every part.