Self-Reliance and transcendentalism are two interconnected philosophies that have had a profound impact on American thought and culture. Ralph Waldo Emerson, the father of Transcendentalism, espoused the belief that each individual has innate wisdom and strength, and that we should rely on our own judgment rather than deferring to authority figures. This philosophy has inspired … Read more
Ralph Waldo Emerson’s “Nature and Self-Reliance” is an essay about the importance of nature in shaping one’s character. Emerson argues that self-reliance is the key to success in life, and that nature provides the best source of inspiration for achieving it. He also contends that humans must learn to appreciate the beauty of nature, and … Read more
In today’s society, it is very easy to allow ourselves to conform to the expectations and thoughts of the people we look up to or spend our time with. However, in Ralph Waldo Emerson’s essay, “Self-Reliance,” he goes into great detail about his belief that it is very important for people to formulate their opinions … Read more
In my second grade classroom, my teacher interrupted my classwork one day, ti state that my traditional African hairstyle was distracting, and directed me to change it by the mext day. When the next day came, and the hair tying me to my culture remained, she pulled me out of class, sent me to the … Read more
Everyone is born with their own unique identity; these identities are largely influenced by the society and culture around them. Society shapes people to believe what is and what isn’t acceptable. All throughout history humans have battled with what they believe is their true identity, and what society believes their identity should be. A common … Read more
In Plato’s Apology, Socrates is on trial for his life because of the alleged accusations of him believing in false gods and teaching such doctrine and corrupting the youth through his teachings. Socrates addresses his accusers faulty allegations while addressing the Athenian people’s destructive gullibility in siding with his accusers opinions without searching out the … Read more