Definition: Transcendentalism was a philosophical and literary movement that emerged in the United States in the early to mid-19th century, emphasizing individualism, self-reliance, intuition, and the belief in the inherent goodness of people and nature.
Characteristic: Transcendentalism stressed the importance of personal spiritual growth, the unity of the soul and nature, and the idea that individuals could transcend the limitations of society and conventional beliefs through the exploration of their inner selves.
Examples:
1. Ralph Waldo Emerson, an influential Transcendentalist thinker, emphasized the importance of individual experience and intuition in his essays, such as "Self-Reliance" and "Nature."
2. Henry David Thoreau, another prominent Transcendentalist writer, advocated for simplicity, self-reliance, and close connection with nature in his work, including "Walden" and "Civil Disobedience."
3. Transcendentalists believed in the divinity of nature and saw the natural world as a source of spiritual insight and inspiration.
Non-examples:
1. Traditional religious beliefs and practices that emphasize organized religion and dogma do not align with the individualistic and nature-focused principles of Transcendentalism.
2. Political ideologies centered on strict social hierarchies and conformity to societal norms are incompatible with the emphasis on individual freedom and intuition promoted by Transcendentalist philosophy.