Themes: Genius vs. Conformity
It is common to point out that geniuses tend to be individuals rather than conformists. Emerson does make this observation, but he goes much further, making the more radical argument that it is this refusal to conform that makes one a genius. Emerson sees this quality of individualism as existing naturally in children, animals, and even plants. Roses, he says, do not imitate other roses. They are entirely themselves.
According to Emerson, this self-reliance is the principal quality that separates the genius from the ordinary mind. Most people, he says, think independently when they are alone. However, external pressures quickly force them to abandon this independence. Pressure to conform can come from diverse and sometimes unexpected sources. People fear not so much the judgment of their peers, who at least tend to be polite, as the derision of the mob. However, even the physical environment can be oppressive. It is easy to be intimidated by magnificent buildings and great works of art, to see them as confirmation of one’s own inferiority rather than as objects for one’s individualistic appreciation and appraisal. Even one’s own former opinions can pressure one to revert to a prior mode of thought. To be truly self-reliant is to rely on oneself in the current moment, without worrying about whether one’s ideas are consistent with past thoughts: “A foolish consistency is the hobgoblin of little minds.”
Emerson’s message here is essentially that of Horace, a message which Horace in turn extrapolates from Stoic philosophy: nil admirari, “wonder at nothing.” This is not a coincidence. Self-reliance is a deeply Stoic idea. Nothing outside one’s soul is as important as what lies within, namely one’s own ideas and principles. External circumstances do not make any difference to anything that matters. To understand this, and to apply that understanding to one’s life, is to become an individual—a genius, even—rather than part of the conformist mass.
Expert Q&A
What does Emerson mean by "Whoso would be a man must be a noncomformist" in "Self-Reliance"?
By saying that "whoso would be a man must be a nonconformist," Emerson means that to reach their highest potential, individuals must follow their souls, not conform to tradition or someone else's preset, conventional plan for their lives.
What does the quote, "Society everywhere is in conspiracy against the manhood of every one of its members" mean?
The quote, "Society everywhere is in conspiracy against the manhood of every one of its members", is a critique of societal pressure to conform. Ralph Waldo Emerson argues that society actively works against individuals' unique identities, equating "manhood" with individuality. Emerson suggests that societal conformity weakens individuals, and that strength comes from following one's instincts. The quote emphasizes the importance of self-reliance and individualism, encouraging people to resist societal norms and maintain their individual liberties.
Explain Emerson's quote on nonconformity. Does the world still punish nonconformity?
Emerson's quote on nonconformity highlights the societal challenges encountered by those who deviate from the norm. He emphasizes that nonconformists are often viewed as abnormal and face backlash, but he encourages individuals to resist conformity despite societal pressure. While society today shows improved acceptance of nonconformity, certain settings still demand conformity, echoing Emerson's sentiments. The quote also underscores the importance of self-reliance and dismissing fickle public opinion in favor of personal authenticity.
What does the quote "With consistency a great soul has simply has nothing to do. He may as well concern himself with his shadow on the wall" from "Self-Reliance" by Ralph Emerson mean?
The quote from "Self-Reliance" by Ralph Waldo Emerson means that rigid consistency in thought and action prevents personal growth and development. Emerson argues that people should not fear changing their opinions, even if it means being misunderstood. He emphasizes the importance of self-trust and following one's conscience, suggesting that true greatness comes from the willingness to evolve and think independently.
Explain the quote: "There is a time in every man's education when he arrives at the conviction that envy is ignorance; that imitation is suicide."
The quote from Emerson's "Self-Reliance" emphasizes the importance of originality and self-trust in education. Emerson argues that envy is ignorance because it overlooks one's unique talents, and imitation is akin to suicide as it stifles individual potential. True education involves recognizing and developing one's distinct qualities rather than conforming to others. This individualism, once realized, becomes the foundation for personal greatness and happiness.
What does Emerson mean by "To be great is to be misunderstood" in Self-Reliance?
When Emerson says, "To be great is to be misunderstood," he is saying that thinking differently from others and coming up with new ideas puts one at the risk of being misunderstood or even treated with hostility.
What does Emerson mean by "[We are] guides, redeemers and benefactors, obeying the Almighty effort and advancing on Chaos and the Dark" in "Self-Reliance"?
In "Self-Reliance," Emerson means that individuals should act as guides, redeemers, and benefactors, taking on active roles to lead, liberate, and benefit others. By doing so, they follow divine will ("obeying the Almighty effort") and make spiritual progress ("advancing on Chaos and the Dark"). Emerson emphasizes rejecting external authority and trusting one's own intuition, as exemplified by figures like Moses, Plato, and Milton.
What is Emerson's famous charge in the "Trust thyself" paragraph of Self-Reliance?
In the "Trust thyself" paragraph of "Self-Reliance," Emerson charges readers to believe in themselves as a foundation for achieving their aims. He emphasizes accepting one's circumstances, embodying childlike confidence while leveraging adult wisdom, and using this self-trust to teach, give, help, and fight evil. Emerson urges readers to act upon their inner goodness, asserting that if an action is right, it must be pursued confidently.
Why is imitation considered suicidal in "Self-Reliance"?
Emerson says that imitation is suicidal because every man has it in him to express something unique. If he merely copies someone else, he deprives the world of the best of himself, creates nothing new, and might as well not have existed.
Why, according to Emerson's "Self-Reliance," should people trust themselves?
According to Emerson's "Self-Reliance," people should trust themselves because each person possesses a unique genius that can only be revealed through self-trust and non-conformity. Emerson argues that society conspires against individuality, pushing conformity, so individuals must rely on their intuition and inner thoughts despite societal pressures. Trusting oneself leads to personal integrity and peace, as true greatness comes from embracing one's spontaneous ideas and principles.
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