8. Ideas of reflection later, because they need attention.
And hence we see the reason why it is pretty late before
most children get ideas of the operations of their own minds; and some have not any very clear or perfect ideas of
the greatest part of them all their lives. Because, though they pass there continually, yet, like floating visions, they
make not deep impressions enough to leave in their mind clear, distinct, lasting ideas, till the understanding turns
inward upon itself, reflects on its own operations, and makes them the objects of its own contemplation. Children
when they come first into it, are surrounded with a world of new things, which, by a constant solicitation of their
senses, draw the mind constantly to them; forward to take notice of new, and apt to be delighted with the variety
of changing objects. Thus the first years are usually employed and diverted in looking abroad. Men's business in
them is to acquaint themselves with what is to be found without; and so growing up in a constant attention to
outward sensations, seldom make any considerable reflection on what passes within them, till they come to be of
riper years; and some scarce ever at all.
