In Cuvier's introduction, he discusses the essence of natural sciences in such a way as to “make perceptible in all its parts the mutual influence of each being” (Cuvier , 4). Cuvier is able to show that natural history is an indispensable part of natural philosophy and can successfully unveil the laws of nature. In making this claim, Cuvier argues that natural history plays an equal scientific role in discovering the system of natural sciences compared to more empirical methods such as dynamics or chemistry. These empirical forms are capable of establishing laws through calculation or through experiments where natural history is based on observation. He shows that each of these forms is powerful in its own right, but fails when attempting to explain the whole of natural science. Cuvier explains that each science approaches natural philosophy in an individual but unified way. Each branch of science dissects a philosophical question to achieve a better understanding. This is often done by experimenting or dissecting it into parts and calculating their relationship and balance. We cannot experiment in an open system without disturbing the dynamics, just as we cannot computationally explain the balance in a large and complicated system. The study of natural history cannot always dissect its subjects as dynamics and chemistry can because, in their parts, the subjects no longer function. In these absences, natural history systematically observes and describes in order to fully understand the general laws. Although observation and description seem like less scientific means of understanding, Cuvier argues that they have their place. Cuvier maintains that this method must be systematic and natural. While some, like John Ray, argue that middle of paper...... habitat. Through this process of observation and comparison, one can arrive at a true philosophical understanding of nature. In combination with the general laws of physics or chemistry, natural history helps produce a coherent understanding of the natural system. Cuvier shows that a philosophical understanding of nature cannot be obtained through calculation, experimentation or observation alone, each of these methods plays an important role. important role in the development of the general laws that govern nature. Natural history does not have the luxury of being able to dissect its subjects while retaining their function and must therefore rely on observation. Although observation may seem like a less scientific means, if observations are compared, general rules and relationships can be inferred. Through the systematic use of comparison, one can arrive at a natural philosophical truth.