The Pros And Cons Of Transcendentalism

Transcendentalism asserts that humans have an inherent goodness which can be undermined by external influences such as society and institutions. While some people may find this philosophy enriching and beneficial, others may disagree with certain aspects or see it as having negative consequences. Some critics argue the focus on intuition and emotion in transcendentalism can lead to a lack of logical or rational thinking, which can result in a lack of critical thinking and a reliance on unproven or irrational beliefs. While some may believe transcendentalism is an essential source of knowledge and understanding, others argue the potential risks of this philosophy outweigh the potential benefits.

Some people argue the emphasis on individualism

Do you want me to go out and advocate violence and rebellion?

HENRY. I ask you to stop violence. As for rebellion, do you think this country was hatched from a soft-boiled egg??? Look around Concord; what do you see? We have become everything we protested against! (Lawrence & Lee 87-88). Thoreau believes that not enough has been done to bring about positive change and that the only way to bring about global transformation is through rebellion. He is attempting to persuade the person he is speaking to, to risk their life for a cause they do not necessarily agree with. This idea of blindly following a belief system, regardless of the consequences, highlights the negative aspects of transcendentalism and its potential to harm those who follow it impulsively.

Holding the conviction that one is always correct while disregarding the perspectives and integrity of others can lead to a loss of self. This behavior can also have negative consequences in relationships and decision-making. In Robert E. Lee’s and Jerome Lawrence’s, The Night Thoreau Spent in Jail, Thoreau's inflexible beliefs cause him to become isolated and ultimately left in a state of emptiness,

SAM. If the majority says-

HERNY. I’m the majority. A majority of

Go ahead, Constable. An honest man can’t come into town to have his shoes fixed. Not even a pair - one shoe without having his neighbors coming around to paw him with their dirty institutions. (Lawrence & Lee 61). Thoreau was so convinced that he was doing something beneficial for the world that he was willing to go to jail for it. Despite being given opportunities to avoid imprisonment, he refused to admit he was wrong. The person assigned to arrest him recognized Thoreau as a noble person, but Thoreau's actions ultimately had negative consequences and inspired others to follow in his footsteps, also with negative results. In Jon Krakauer's Into the Wild, many people do not believe that one's beliefs or goals are worth sacrificing their life for. An Alaskan citizen from Krakauer’s novel said, “Entering the wilderness purposefully ill-prepared and surviving a near-death experience does not make you a better human, it makes you damn lucky” (Krakauer. 71). Entering a dangerous environment without proper preparation is irresponsible and demonstrates a lack of competence and reasoning skills. Even if one thinks they are experienced, this behavior is not conducive to safety. This thoughtless and irresponsible behavior is directly at odds with the values of transcendentalism, which emphasizes self-reliance, self-improvement, and a deep connection with nature. By disregarding safety and responsibility, one is not living in accordance with these