Emerson Individualism Essay

In today’s world of smartphones and google why would a person ever need to rely upon themselves? This often forgotten concept of individualism was championed by Ralph Waldo Emerson in his essay Self Reliance. He stressed that people should not depend on others or society on how to live, or let material objects define them. Emerson’s ideas in Self Reliance remain true today, as people still tremendously struggle with not just being themselves but thinking for themselves, and are easily overwhelmed by material wealth and possessions.

Emerson’s essay called for an awakening of people to accept who they are and not rely on society for reasons to think or act. As he stated that, “What I must do, is all that concerns me, not what the people think” (23). Emerson described that being as independent as possible in our lives, actions, and beliefs becomes pivotal in truly acting as ourselves. This concept can still be used presently because society is dominated by the media, and people no longer have to think for themselves but instead have information fed to them. Thus, instead of creating their own opinions people are more influenced by the media and news than themselves. Therefore,

Emerson described that “Good and bad are but names very readily transferred to that or this; the only right is what is after my constitution, the only wrong what is against it” (22). Thus, he was motivating people to act how they wanted to, no matter what other people thought of them. Which is true as the opinions of others should always be minor at most compared to how one feels himself. Additionally, Emerson’s ideas are relatable for teenagers dealing with peer pressure. Leading to them trying to fit in, instead of making themselves happy. Thus, his ideas are proved again because of how many people rely on the approval and opinions of society instead of