What does it mean to be self-reliant? How important is this trait in American life today?
Henry David Thoreau became self-reliant—he built his own house and grew his own food—so that his time would be truly his own. In one of the excerpts you're about to read, Emerson celebrates mental self-reliance: having the courage and confidence to be true to oneself instead of following the crowd.
Trust thyself: every heart vibrates to that iron string.
As you read Emerson's writings, consider how the idea of self-reliance fits together with his faith in the lessons of nature.
Question
What do you think it means to trust oneself above all else? What are some possible consequences of this attitude?
According to Emerson, trusting yourself means staying true to your own nature and personal wisdom instead of bowing mindlessly to the conventions and opinions of society.
This attitude sometimes causes conflict with other people, particularly authority figures such as parents, teachers, and spiritual leaders.
This attitude sometimes causes conflict with other people, particularly authority figures such as parents, teachers, and spiritual leaders.
