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As a Transcendentalist, Ralph Waldo Emerson firmly believed in the merits of individualism and the power of intuition. In his essay, "Self-Reliance," he explains,

To believe your own thought, to believe that what is true for you in your private heart is true for all men-that is genius.

Moreover, Emerson holds that each individual is in possession of a genius unique to him, but it is a genius that can only be revealed when the individual has the fortitude to trust his own ideas, attitudes, and propensities despite pressures from society. For society is in a "conspiracy" against the individual and would have him follow conventional thought and conform.

Society everywhere is in conspiracy against the manhood of every one of its members.....Self-reliance is its aversion.

Clearly, Emerson's mantra of "trust thyself" prevails throughout his essay. He states that in every great work of art people recognize their own rejected thoughts as they return to them "with a certain alienated majesty" now that they are in art. Thus, the existence and value attributed to the work of art teaches individuals that they must abide by their own spontaneous ideas--their "genius"--and not discard them, despite "the whole cry of voices on the other side," the disapproval of society. Emerson further urges,

Whoso would be a man must be a non-conformist....Nothing is at last sacred but the integrity of your own mind....Nothing can bring you peace but yourself [and] the triumph of your principles.

Above all, individuals must believe in their powers of intuition and be themselves, trusting in their own genius, for to do so is to have integrity and peace.

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4d ago

Emerson believed that people should trust themselves because they possess a deep connection to the divine and nature. By trusting their intuition and inner voice, individuals can tap into a universal wisdom that guides them towards their true purpose and potential. Trusting oneself allows individuals to lead authentic and fulfilling lives.

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Q: According to Emerson why should people trust themselves?
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Who does Emerson believe people should trust above anything else?

Themselves


How does Ralph Waldo Emerson feel about non-conformity?

Ralph Waldo Emerson is known for advocating non-conformity and individualism. He believed that people should trust themselves and follow their own intuition rather than conforming to society's expectations or norms. Emerson saw non-conformity as a way for individuals to live authentically and realize their true potential.


What is Emerson essay nature mostly about?

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What is a theme in Emerson's Self Reliance?

A central theme in Emerson's "Self-Reliance" is the importance of trusting oneself and following one's own instincts and beliefs. Emerson encourages individuals to break free from societal conformity and embrace their unique perspectives and ideas. He also emphasizes the importance of individualism and independence in shaping one's own life.


How does Emerson believe people should be affected by the way others perceive them from the story Self Reliance?

Emerson believed that individuals should not be influenced by others' perceptions of them. Instead, they should trust their own intuition and beliefs, valuing their own judgment above external opinions. By being true to themselves, individuals can achieve self-reliance and personal growth.


Which best summarizes Emerson's views on being consistent?

being consistent is not something people should worry about.


Who were some important Transcendentalists and what ideas did they promote?

Ralph Waldo Emerson, Henry David Thoreau, Amos Bronson Alcott, Margaret Fuller were some important transcendentalists. They believed that people could rise above the material things in life, and that everyone should live more simply. They believed that people should depend solely on themselves.


Who were some important trancendents and what ideas did they promote?

Ralph Waldo Emerson, Henry David Thoreau, Amos Bronson Alcott, Margaret Fuller were some important transcendentalists. They believed that people could rise above the material things in life, and that everyone should live more simply. They believed that people should depend solely on themselves.


Why does Emerson believe that people should follow their own nature?

Emerson believes that individuals possess a unique inner genius or intuition that is connected with the divinity of nature. By following their own nature, people can tap into this inner wisdom and achieve self-reliance, creativity, and fulfillment. Ultimately, Emerson sees following one's own nature as a path to personal growth, authenticity, and harmony with the universe.


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