The Author of this book believes that teaching is a science based on principles as firmly fixed, as readily determined, and capable of being as thoroughly systematized, as those of either law, medicine, or theology.<br><br>He believes, also, that teaching is destined to rank among the foremost of the learned professions, and that, considered with reference to the magnitude and importance of the work to be accomplished, this profession is inferior to no other.<br><br>He believes, therefore, in the necessity of special preparation for this calling as for other important callings in life, and that no one should assume the duties and responsibilities incident to teaching without a knowledge of the human body, the functions of the physical organs, and the laws of health, as well as a knowledge of the human mind, its faculties, and the methods of their development and culture. He holds, also, that the teacher should have a thorough knowledge of the best methods of management, as well as be entirely familiar with the most valuable methods of instruction and culture. Without this knowledge the teacher can be only an experimenter who works at random; with it, he is prepared to win success and aid in elevating his calling to the dignity which should characterize it as a profession.