Ralph Waldo Emerson
Literary and philosophical scholars have long since characterized Ralph Waldo Emerson as one of the greatest thinkers in American history. Emerson’s philosophy of individualism is deeply rooted in the philosophy of such intellectuals as Kant, Plato, Swedenborg, and Pascal.
The New England Renaissance in American literature was in full swing by 1840 and lasted until about 1855. With the 1836 publication of his essay Nature, Ralph Waldo Emerson, ushered in the movement known as Transcendentalism.
Emerson scholar, Robert Richardson, has written a book titled Emerson: A Mind on Fire. In this WGBH podcast of the same title, Richardson discusses his work and entertains questions from the audience. This is a 30-minute audio file.
As you listen to the WGBH podcast entitled Emerson: A Mind on Fire, contemplate this question: How does Emerson’s philosophy of individualism contrast with today’s concept of “I”? Richardson talks about what meaning Emerson still has for us today. He addresses the contrast in Emerson’s philosophy of individualism with the concept of individuality that we see in 21st century American society.
Please submit your 75-word response by Tuesday, October 27 at 7:00 AM.
Other related resources:
Emerson Society
Works of Ralph Waldo Emerson
Image Attribution: http://www.ineedmotivation.com/blog/2008/10/23-powerful-quotes-from-ralph-waldo-emerson/
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