Self Reliance

1. 1. In today's culture, self reliance, in the terms of the church has flourished. Many people don't believe that God is the only answer any more, and many are looking inward for answers. When it comes to what is considered the social norm, many people still try to stay inside what is normal.  Many don't want to be misunderstood, even though according to Emerson, that means greatness.
2. The terms Emerson uses to describe society are conspiracy and joint-stock company. According to Emerson, society's main purpose is to destroy self- reliance and to conform everyone.  Emerson thinks that people should be affected positively in the way people view them.
3. The scientists, philosophers, and religious thinkers were all misunderstood. The evidence he gives are names of misunderstood people that made major differences in the world.
4. His use of the word foolish is important because it shows just how strongly he feels about the topic. I think that the only time he would advocate consistency is when he is saying be consistently spontaneous or misunderstood.
5. He feels the divine providence has already set a path for you. I think that he would say everyone's reason for living would be to contribute something different to the world, and to be one's own person.
6. I would choose his speak what you think statement because if you always say what you feel, no matter what you said yesterday, someone will always listen.