If any one, however, imagines that such a theory will terminate all differences of opinion; if he thinks laws can be established, by which authors may infallibly be taught to please universally, and to escape the shafts of criticism, neither this subject nor my plan has been sufficiently understood.
Doubts and disputes will ever exist respecting the liberty of human opinion. A thorough knowledge of these disputes and of their origin, however valuable an acquisition, is not sufficient. Principles alone, duly ascertained, will enable us to form equitable judgments, to approve at least what we do not highly admire, and to give every author his due tribute of commendation. Diffidence in maintaining our own sentiments, and respect for those of others, will be the result of this theory. Anticipating the effect of their works, authors may foresee when they will be generally read, or when an attention to them will be confined to a certain class of mankind. Consoled by the applause of some for the disregard of others, they will not pant for an unattainable degree of fame, but direct their views to a degree of perfection which may ensure to them the esteem of an enlightened posterity.
Though subject to several defects, this theory ought not on that account to be despised, since all other sciences are in some measure liable to the same objection. Morality will serve us for an example. In this important science is there nothing controvertible? It ought to be founded on fixed principles: but these are only determined by reason
