The [Conscious-Automaton] theory
maintains that in everything outward
we are pure material machines.
Feeling is a mere collateral product of our nervous processes,
unable to react upon them
any more than a shadow reacts
on the steps of the traveller whom it accompanies.
Inert, uninfluential,
a simple passenger in the voyage of life,
it is allowed to remain on board,
but not to touch the helm or handle the rigging.
