Not always are comparisons illuminating, it seems. Our author writes,
'It may be said--in fact, it has been said--that there can at all events
be no harm in simply placing the myths and customs of savages side by
side with the myths and customs of Hindus and Greeks.' (This, in fact,
is the method of the science of institutions.)
'But experience shows that this is not so' (i. 195). So we must not,
should not, simply place the myths and customs of savages side by side
with those of Hindus and Greeks. It is taboo.