What is probable evidence?

I. What is probable evidence?

• 1. It differs from demonstration in that it admits of degrees; of all degrees.
  • 1.) One probability does not beget assurance.
  • 2.) But the slightest presumption makes a probability.
  • 3.) The repetition of it may make certainty.
• 2. What constitutes probability is likeness; in regard to the event itself, or its kind of evidences, or its circumstances.
  • 1.) This daily affords presumptions, evidence, or conviction: according as it is occasional, common, or constant.
  • 2.) Measures our hopes and fears.
  • 3.) Regulates our expectations as to men’s conduct.
  • 4.) Enables us to judge of character from conduct.
• 3. It is an imperfect mode of judging, and adapted to beings of limited capacities.
• 4. Where better evidence cannot be had, it constitutes moral obligation, even though great doubts remain.
  • 1.) We are as much bound to do what, on the whole, appears to be best, as if we knew it to be so.
  • 2.) In questions of great moment, it is reasonable to act when the favorable chances are no greater than the unfavorable.
  • 3.) There are numberless cases in which a man would be thought distracted if he did not act, and that earnestly, where the chances of success were greatly against him.