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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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In what ways does Emerson believe people should be affected by the ways others perceive them?

Emerson believes that people should not be influenced by the opinions of others, maintaining their own self-reliance and individualism. He suggests that individuals should trust their own intuition and judgment rather than seeking validation from external sources. Emerson emphasizes the importance of self-reliance and living authentically, free from the constraints of societal expectations.


Why do people make fun of mentally ill people?

People make fun of them because they are different. They think that if they are different, they should be treated different. People should understand that it is wrong to make fun of other people if they look or act differently from themselves.


Why do people hate themselves?

People may hate themselves due to negative experiences, low self-esteem, mental health issues such as depression or anxiety, societal pressures, or past trauma. Self-hatred can manifest in many ways and often requires professional support to overcome.


Why do men rant to themselves?

All people engage in self talk. Some men find it easier to motivate themselves by ordering themselves around.Another PerspectiveRanting is angry, loud, bombastic, exaggerated and threatening speech. It can be very frightening for children in a family setting and sets a very poor example. People who rant do not possess good coping skills when they are stressed. They may have anger management problems. Ranting can escalate to throwing things and hitting. A person who has the habit of ranting when stressed should get counseling.


Why do people call other people with glasses '4-eyed'?

The reason why is really stupid. You have 2 eyes and if u can't see than you glasses which are another pair of eyes so people will call you 4 eyed but really they should think before they say stuff like that. They should put themselves in who they're bullying and see if they like it.

Related Questions

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.


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.


In what ways does Emerson believe people should be affected by the way others perceive them?

Emerson believes that individuals should remain true to themselves and not overly concern themselves with others' perceptions. He emphasizes the importance of self-reliance and authenticity, suggesting that external opinions should not dictate one's actions or self-worth. While he acknowledges that social interactions shape personal identity, he advocates for inner confidence and integrity over conformity to societal expectations. Ultimately, Emerson encourages individuals to trust their instincts and maintain their individuality despite external judgments.


What is Emerson essay nature mostly about?

Why people should search for truth and beauty.


What is a theme in Emerson's Self Reliance?

Ralph Waldo Emerson was an American transcendentalist philosopher. He believed people should follow their own instincts and ideas. "Self-Reliance" is an 1841 essay with the major theme that to become truly independent, people must believe in themselves.


In what ways does Emerson believe people should be affected by the ways others perceive them?

Emerson believes that people should not be influenced by the opinions of others, maintaining their own self-reliance and individualism. He suggests that individuals should trust their own intuition and judgment rather than seeking validation from external sources. Emerson emphasizes the importance of self-reliance and living authentically, free from the constraints of societal expectations.


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.


What does Emerson value more- original thought or conventional thought?

Emerson values original thought more than conventional thought. He believed that individuals should trust their own instincts and ideas rather than conforming to societal norms or beliefs. Emerson encouraged people to think independently and to cultivate their unique perspectives.


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.