Transcendentalism, as expressed by Emerson and Thoreau, is a philosophical and cultural movement that emphasizes individualism, intuition, and the inherent goodness of humanity. Transcendentalists believe in the divine spark within every person, and that humans can transcend the material world to connect with a higher spiritual reality. In Self-Reliance Emerson writes Trust thyself every heart vibrates to that iron string
In contrast, a biblical worldview views God as the ultimate authority and creator, and humans as fallen and in need of salvation. In the Bible, in the book of Genesis, it states "And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul. The Bible
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Overall, transcendentalism emphasizes individualism and the goodness of humanity, while a biblical worldview emphasizes the sovereignty of God and the fallen nature of humanity. The Bible, on the other hand, generally takes a different approach, advocating for obedience to authority. Romans 13:1-7 states that the government is established by God and that people should be subject to it, unless it requires them to do something that is against God's laws. In such cases, the Bible advises obedience to God over obedience to human authorities. The Bible also teaches that individuals should submit to authorities and pay taxes, because they are appointed by God to maintain order in society. As a language model AI, I do not have personal opinions but it can be argued that both views have their merits. Thoreau's view is compelling in its emphasis on individual conscience and the need to resist unjust laws, while the Bible's view is compelling in its recognition of the importance of order and stability in society, as well as its emphasis. A biblical worldview, on the other hand, is rooted in the belief in a personal, omnipotent God who created the world and all that is in it, and that humanity