Thoreau chooses to live at Walden as a sort of social experiment; the stresses of daily life are too great for him and he needs to go back and live a 'simple life.' Walden provides an escape from the all-too-fast developing American industry.
Thoreau believes that simplifying one's life allows for a deeper connection to nature, a focus on the essentials, and a clearer sense of purpose. By embracing simplicity, individuals can free themselves from material distractions and societal expectations, leading to a more meaningful and fulfilling existence.
He thought this would help him learn truths about himself and the world
Thoreau believed that simplifying life allowed people to focus on what is truly important, such as self-discovery, connection with nature, and personal fulfillment. By reducing distractions and material possessions, individuals can live more deliberately and authentically, aligning with their true values and purpose. Thoreau saw simplicity as a path to greater freedom, inner peace, and fulfillment in life.
because they have no lives.
The role the government should play in people's lives
The poor
Thoreau believed that by simplifying their lives, people gained a deeper connection to nature, a clearer sense of purpose, and increased freedom from materialistic distractions. Simplifying allowed individuals to focus on what truly mattered to them and live more authentically.
Henry David Thoreau, the author of Walden, believed that modern society and its preoccupation with materialism and superficiality led people into lives of quiet desperation. Thoreau advocated for a simpler life connected to nature and self-reflection to counteract the effects of modern society.
Thoreau encourages people, even if they're poor, to live deliberately and simply, focusing on inner wealth and self-reliance rather than material possessions. He believes in the importance of living a life of integrity and following one's own conscience, regardless of financial status.
Most people do not understand the possibilities for their own lives
That a government is best when it does not interfere with the lives of individuals
Do not dwell on your circumstances.
Henry David Thoreau
They simply got on with their lives. Most people were not aware of his existence.