TEMPERAMENTS.
The term Temperament, says a late writer, is applied to those differences of external appearance which are supposed to indicate the comparative state of the fibres of the body as they are more or less dense, or as possessing one of the functions of life in greater activity, or one of the constituents of the animal body in greater quantity than another; or in short, certain states or conditions of the body, which are found to exercise more or less influence in exciting or repressing the action of the organs.
The Temperaments as they are usually enumerated, are four in number, to wit: the Lymphatic; the Sanguine; the Bilious; and the Nervous.
In persons of a Lymphatic Temperament, the brain is sluggish and performs its functions in a feeble but steady manner. The individual is averse to severe exertion, and requires much stimuli to move him. As a general rule, he will be averse to either mental or bodily activity.
Those of a Sanguine Temperament are easily excited, and easily depressed, fond of pleasure, and averse to severe exertions. They live for the present, rather than the future. The actions of the mind are quick, rather than powerful.
Persons of a Bilious Temperament are determined, persevering and ambitious in their character and disposition. Their every movement and aspect indicates decision of purpose. Their mental operations are vigorous and powerful.
Persons of a Nervous Temperament, are very sensitive, and are easily excited. Their mental operations are rapid, but they are soon exhausted.