Transcendentalism

Transcendentalism

Thinking Activity 

Hello Readers,

This blog is based on Thinking Activity task of Transcendentalism. 

Transcendentalism was a philosophical and literary movement in the 19th century, primarily in the United States. It emphasized the inherent goodness of people and nature, as well as the belief in the importance of self-reliance and individual intuition. Transcendentalists, such as Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau, sought a spiritual connection with nature and believed in the inherent divinity of humanity. They rejected strict societal norms and emphasized the importance of personal experience and intuition in understanding the truth.

1.Transcendentalists talk about the Individual’s relation with Nature.What is Nature for you ?

Nature for me,  is like a big, beautiful playground that does a lot of important things. First, it's like a chill-out spot where you can take a break from the busy world and feel better. Being in nature helps your mind relax and gives you a chance to think.

Nature also has a cool job shaping the world. It decides how mountains look, what the weather is like, and even how plants and animals live. Understanding this helps us take care of our planet better.

But nature isn't just about facts—it's like a giant painting that inspires us. Whether it's a pretty leaf or a huge mountain, nature makes us think about how amazing life is.

So, in simple terms, nature is our awesome getaway, the boss of the planet's design, and the artist that inspires us every day.

2. Transcendentalism is an American Philosophy that influenced American Literature at length. Can you find any Indian/Regional literature or Philosophy that came up with such similar thoughts?

Philosophical tradition with resonances to Transcendentalism can be found in the teachings of Jiddu Krishnamurti. Krishnamurti, an influential philosopher and spiritual teacher, advocated for self-discovery, freedom from societal conditioning, and a direct, experiential understanding of truth.

Jiddu Krishnamurti was a wise person who talked about finding yourself and being free from what people expect. He believed in thinking for yourself and discovering truth through your own experiences.

Krishnamurti's ideas are a bit like Transcendentalism, where people are encouraged to be responsible for themselves, think independently, and break free from what society tells them to do. He wanted individuals to explore their own minds, question everything, and find a deep sense of inner freedom.

Here are some reasons and point of views that how the connection being generated between Jiddu Krishnamurti's philosophy and Transcendentalism:

1. Individual Exploration:

  

- Krishnamurti: Emphasizes the importance of exploring one's own consciousness, questioning beliefs, and experiencing truth directly.

- Transcendentalism: Advocates for individual intuition and the belief that truth can be directly apprehended through personal experience rather than relying solely on external authority.

2. Freedom from Conformity:

- Krishnamurti: Stresses the need to break free from societal conditioning and think independently.

- Transcendentalism: Rejects conformity and encourages self-reliance, urging individuals to trust their own instincts and insights.

3. Spiritual Connection:

 

- Krishnal

murti:  Talks about a spiritual dimension that can be discovered through inner exploration and self-discovery.

 

- Transcendentalism:  Highlights the inherent divinity within individuals and the spiritual connection with nature.

4. Focus on the Present Moment:

- Krishnamurti:  Encourages living in the present moment, free from the burden of the past and future.

  

- Transcendentalism: Values the present as a source of truth and spiritual insight, often found in the simplicity and immediacy of nature.

5. Emphasis on Self-Responsibility:

- Krishnamurti: Urges individuals to take responsibility for their own lives and understanding.

   

- Transcendentalism: Values self-reliance and the idea that individuals can directly access spiritual truths without the need for intermediaries.

By exploring these aspects of Krishnamurti's philosophy, one can draw connections with Transcendentalist ideals, finding common ground in the pursuit of individual insight, freedom, and a deeper understanding of existence.

So, if you're interested, you can check out Jiddu Krishnamurti's writings to learn more about his philosophy that shares some similarities with Transcendentalism but has its own unique perspective on self-discovery and freedom.

3. "Self Reliance" by Ralph Waldo Emerson:

Self Reliance:

Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803–1882) was an American essayist, lecturer, and poet who became a central figure in the transcendentalist movement in the 19th century. Born in Boston, Massachusetts, Emerson was known for his profound influence on American literature and philosophy.

Emerson's writings, including essays like "Self-Reliance" and "Nature," conveyed his transcendentalist beliefs, emphasizing individualism, self-reliance, and a deep connection with nature. He encouraged people to trust their intuition and think independently.

Aside from his literary contributions, Emerson was a prominent lecturer and delivered speeches that addressed various social and philosophical issues of his time. His ideas played a significant role in shaping American intellectual and cultural thought during the 19th century.

"Self-Reliance" by Ralph Waldo Emerson is a strong essay that talks about being yourself and trusting what you think. Emerson says it's important not to just follow what everyone else does and be true to your own ideas. He doesn't like the idea of doing things just because everyone expects it.

Emerson really thinks listening to your own feelings and depending on yourself is crucial for personal growth. He believes everyone has a unique way of seeing things, and it's good to trust your inner voice instead of always listening to what others say.

The essay also says it's not a good idea to always follow old ways or what others think. Emerson wants people to think for themselves and come up with their own ideas. He believes that if you just do what everyone expects, it stops you from being creative and gaining real wisdom.

"Self-Reliance" also encourages doing your own thing and not always following the crowd. Emerson thinks each person is important and being true to yourself is what makes someone great.

In summary, "Self-Reliance" is like a message telling you to trust yourself, be yourself, and not let society force you to be someone you're not. It's a deep exploration of why trusting yourself is crucial in dealing with life's challenges.

Thank you 😊