Moreover, if we descend through the series of grades of animals, we see the intellect growing weaker and weaker and more and more imperfect, but we certainly do not observe a corresponding degradation of the Wille. In fact the case is rather contrary to that because the Wille everywhere retains its identical nature, and with vehemence clings on to life by a great attachment and care for the individual, thus the species, and displays egoism and lack of consideration for all others. The smallest insect wills what it wills as decidedly and completely as does man, with the only difference in the motives of its respective willing. Every act of the Wille is wholly what it can be and is as manifest just as the intellect has innumerable degrees of perfection and is generally wont with limitations. Degrees of the completeness of its real nature accordingly rises gradually from the lowest animal up to man; where its pinnacle...