Transcendentalism

Transcendentalism is based on the knowledge of individualism which was a trend in religion in the early 1800s. The transcendentalists believed that the other religions were taking away from the power of the individual. Transcendentalism is also under my definition of being self-reliant. Each person has the ability to be self-reliant and depend on themselves. This does not take away from the aspect of teamwork and effort but rather enhances the image of one person. The strengths of this particular religion are great speeches, empowering oneself, and motivational wisdom. The power one can express when speaking of transcendentalism is monumental for the confidence and will to be self-reliant. Much like Johnathan Edwards, the preachers of this time period were unlike any other. They got them fired up and actively ready to spread the religion. Associated with transcendentalism also are a few weaknesses. The ideas of transcendentalism were very strong and often scary. Some folks were scared of the transcendentalists during this time because they were loud, unpredictable, and boasting with confidence. Teamwork among transcendentalists was nonexistent which was resulted in many perplexed by their views of society.

My views on transcendentalism are mixed but clear. I am a fan of being self-reliant when I need to be but I am also very set on being able to work exceptionally well as a team in today’s society. I think that it is important to cover both because one will come across many circumstances where he/she will need both skills and mindsets. The transcendentalists would just give up and run away from teamwork and say that it is against their religion. For these views I am considered somewhere in between of being a Transcendentalist. I am not sure if the true transcendentalists would have liked me to be “both” religions. I believe that in today’s society we should all be well-rounded individuals and teams.