Why did transcendentalism gain popularity?
Transcendentalism arose when it did for several reasons. First, it was a humanistic philosophy — it put the individual right at the center of the universe and promoted respect for human capabilities. Channing and a few others among the early Unitarians had a formative influence on the Transcendentalists.
What is wrong with transcendentalism?
However, while the idea of Transcendentalism is great, there are many methods of execution in which it can not only be ineffectual, but also quite harmful, if taken too far. Especially harmful is an acute sense of nihilism, cultural degradation, and a disillusioned sense of perfection when it comes to life in general.
What were transcendentalists against?
Transcendentalists advocated the idea of a personal knowledge of God, believing that no intermediary was needed for spiritual insight. They embraced idealism, focusing on nature and opposing materialism.
What was the concern of the Transcendentalists about American society?
Transcendentalists valued individualism and self-reliance Henry David Thoreau and Margaret Fuller were among the principals of the movement. The Transcendentalists believed there is a divine spirit in nature and in every living soul. Through individualism and self-reliance human beings could reunite with God.
What religion is transcendentalism?
The philosophy of transcendentalism originated in Unitarianism, the predominant religious movement in Boston in the early 19th century. Unitarianism was a liberal Christian sect that emphasized rationality, reason, and intellectualism; it was especially popular at Harvard.
What was stressed by the transcendentalist movement?
American transcendentalist who was against slavery and stressed self-reliance, optimism, self-improvement, self-confidence, and freedom. He was a prime example of a transcendentalist and helped further the movement. Edited “The Dial” which was the publication of the transcendentalists.