8.3 The American Scholar and Self-Reliance

Emerson's "The American Scholar" and "Self-Reliance" champion intellectual independence and originality. These essays promote the ideal of the "Man Thinking," an individual who engages deeply with the world through reflection and original thought.

Emerson's philosophy emphasizes self-trust and nonconformity as foundations for personal growth. He encourages readers to embrace their individuality, reject societal norms, and rely on their own intuition and reasoning to navigate life's challenges.

Emerson's Ideal Individual

The Man Thinking: Emerson's Vision of the Ideal Scholar

Top images from around the web for The Man Thinking: Emerson's Vision of the Ideal Scholar

• 

  The American Scholar - Wikipedia View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Self-Reliance | American Literature I View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  The American Scholar - Wikipedia View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Self-Reliance | American Literature I View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 2

Top images from around the web for The Man Thinking: Emerson's Vision of the Ideal Scholar

• 

  The American Scholar - Wikipedia View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Self-Reliance | American Literature I View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  The American Scholar - Wikipedia View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Self-Reliance | American Literature I View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 2

• Embodies the ideal of the "Man Thinking" represents an individual who actively engages with the world through contemplation and reflection
• Possesses a keen intellect and a thirst for knowledge continuously seeks to expand their understanding of the world around them
• Maintains a sense of wonder and curiosity about the natural world and the human experience approaches life with a sense of awe and appreciation
• Engages in deep, original thought rather than simply accepting the ideas of others or conforming to societal norms

Intellectual Independence and Originality: The Hallmarks of Emerson's Ideal

• Values intellectual independence refuses to blindly accept the ideas or beliefs of others, instead relying on their own reasoning and intuition
• Thinks for themselves and forms their own opinions based on careful observation and reflection rather than simply conforming to the status quo
• Strives for originality in their thoughts and actions seeks to contribute something new and unique to the world rather than simply imitating others
• Embraces their own individuality and trusts in their own abilities rather than seeking validation or approval from others

Self-Trust and Self-Reliance: The Foundation of Emerson's Philosophy

• Places a high value on self-trust believes in the inherent wisdom and goodness of the individual soul
• Trusts in their own instincts and intuition rather than relying on external authorities or institutions for guidance
• Practices self-reliance takes responsibility for their own life and choices rather than depending on others for support or direction
• Embraces their own unique path in life rather than conforming to societal expectations or norms

Transcendental Principles

The Transcendental Philosophy: Emerson's Metaphysical Foundation

• Draws on the ideas of transcendental philosophy which emphasizes the primacy of the spiritual and the intuitive over the material and the rational
• Believes in the existence of a higher, spiritual reality that transcends the physical world and can be accessed through intuition and contemplation
• Sees the natural world as a symbol or manifestation of this higher reality nature serves as a gateway to spiritual truth and understanding
• Emphasizes the interconnectedness of all things believes that everything in the universe is ultimately connected and part of a larger whole

Nonconformity and Individualism: The Core of Transcendentalist Thought

• Places a high value on nonconformity encourages individuals to reject societal norms and expectations in favor of their own unique path
• Believes that true fulfillment and happiness can only be achieved by staying true to oneself and one's own convictions rather than simply following the crowd
• Emphasizes the importance of individualism sees each person as a unique and valuable being with their own distinct perspective and purpose
• Encourages individuals to embrace their own individuality and to trust in their own abilities and instincts rather than relying on external validation or guidance

The Transcendentalist Vision of Society: A Call for Reform and Transformation

• Critiques the conformity and materialism of contemporary society sees these values as stifling to the individual spirit and detrimental to true progress and enlightenment
• Calls for a reformation of society based on transcendentalist principles envisions a world in which individuals are free to pursue their own unique paths and to live in harmony with nature and with each other
• Believes that social and political institutions should serve to support and empower the individual rather than to constrain or oppress them
• Sees education as a key means of promoting transcendentalist values and fostering individual growth and development emphasizes the importance of self-directed learning and the cultivation of independent thought