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Transcendentalism In Civil Disobedience, By Henry David Thoreau

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Transcendentalism was a philosophical and literary movement that emerged in the United States during the mid-19th century. It was a reaction against the prevailing intellectual and cultural climate of the time, which was dominated by rationalism, empiricism, and materialism. Transcendentalists believed in the inherent goodness of humanity and nature, the power of individualism, and the importance of spiritual and moral values.

One of the key figures of transcendentalism was Ralph Waldo Emerson, who played a significant role in shaping the movement's philosophy and ideas. In his essay "Nature," published in 1836, Emerson argued that the natural world was a source of inspiration and spiritual renewal. He believed that individuals could connect with the divine through their own experiences of nature, …show more content…

Thoreau spent two years living in a cabin by Walden Pond, where he reflected on the nature of existence and the importance of simplicity and self-reliance. He believed that individuals should live deliberately and mindfully, and that they should strive to live in harmony with nature.

Thoreau was also a strong advocate for civil disobedience, which he saw as a means of resisting unjust laws and policies. In his essay "Civil Disobedience," published in 1849, he argued that individuals had a moral obligation to disobey laws that violated their conscience or that were contrary to natural law.

Transcendentalists were also committed to social reform and the advancement of human rights. They were strong advocates for the abolition of slavery and for women's rights, and they believed in the importance of education and social equality. Many transcendentalists were involved in the establishment of utopian communities, such as Brook Farm and Fruitlands, which were based on the principles of communal living, spiritual development, and social

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A Transcendentalist is someone who wants to rise above society through the use of thought and spirit. Through their journey Transcendentalist typically isolate themselves from society not just physically but materialistically. By Definition Chris McCandless is not only a transcendentalist, but he was one of the greatest. First in Chris McCandless’s list of traits that contributed to him being a transcendentalist is his spiritual rebirthing, inner connection with nature and his divine will power.

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It also revived the emotional side of religion which led to Transcendentalism. This was a philosophical and literary movement in response to rationalism and the enlightenment. It was centered around Ralph Waldo Emerson. Transcendentalists were critics of own society. They thought that society corrupted the purity of an individual.

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Resistance to Civil Government (Civil Disobedience) is a dissertation written by American abolitionist, author and philosopher Henry David Thoreau published by Elizabeth Peabody in the Aesthetic Papers in 1849. Henry David Thoreau (1817-1862) was born and lived almost his life in Concord, Massachusetts. After finishing public and private school in Concord he attended the prestige Harvard University. He excelled at Harvard despite leaving school for several months due to health and financial setbacks. Mr. Thoreau graduated in the top half of his class in 1837.

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Henry David Thoreau and Chris McCandless believe Transcendentalism is a way of life instead of just a religious concept. Transcendentalism is a concept that focuses on pleasing the self before others. Many people believe that one must venture into the wild in order to become a transcendentalist. Thoreau and McCandless both had similar views on the idea of Transcendentalism.

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Trascendentalism was started way back in the year 1807. Trascendentalism was a movement started as a club of people. They accept ideas of life but not as religious beliefs but as a way of understanding life. One of the people who was a strong believer of transcendentalism was Thoreau. He believed in living simply just like modern days Lenard skynard.

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“Transcendentalism is the belief that some truths transcend proof reflected both a reaction to growing American materialism and a confidence in humankind that led to social experiments and reform movements and continued to influence social movements through the twentieth century” ("Transcendental Movement Arises in New England"). In the early to mid-nineteenth century, a philosophical movement known as Transcendentalism expanded in America and evolved into a predominantly literary expression. “Adherents to Transcendentalism believed that knowledge could be arrived at not just through the senses, but through intuition and contemplation of the internal spirit” (Rahn). The beginning of the movement can be accurately traced to 1836 and the first

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The idea of the spiritual connection between humans and nature, which is central to transcendentalist thought, has inspired many environmentalists to advocate for the protection of natural spaces and the preservation of biodiversity. For example, environmental activist and author Bill McKibben has cited Thoreau as an influence, and his organization 350.org uses nonviolent direct action to fight climate change. Another area in which transcendentalism continues to influence American culture is in the self-help movement. Transcendentalist ideas about the "self-made man" have influenced many self-help books and programs. These books and programs emphasize individual responsibility and self-reliance, encouraging individuals to take control of their own lives and achieve success through their own efforts.

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Transcendentalism Transcendentalism is a philosophy by Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau which focuses on human rights and society’s negative impact on individuals. Transcendental beliefs are still found today in the modern world, whether people are aware of it or not. When reviewing any song or current movie, it is hard not to find these messages within them. Local musician Conor Oberst often sings about his dissatisfactions with society, which reflect many transcendental ideas. In fact, in 2008 Oberst even performed at rallies  for our current president Barack Obama.

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