Gunnar Myrdal

Compared with members of other nations of Western civilization, the ordinary American is a rationalistic being, and there are close relations between his moralism and his rationalism. Even romanticism, transcendentalism, and mysticism tend to be, in the American culture, rational, pragmatic and optimistic.

Swedish Economist

Louis Dudek

The residue of religion in my work appears as a modified transcendentalism, and the positivist scientific side of my thought appears as concreteness and realism. The effort to reconcile the two is at the core of all my poetry.

Canadian Poet

Fred Tomaselli

There are aspects of Asian culture in my work, but it's really rooted in an American experience - transcendentalism, '60s counterculture, punk rock.

American Artist

E. O. Wilson

Even as empiricism is winning the mind, transcendentalism continues to win the heart.

American Scientist

Understand that transcendentalism is deeply rooted in philosophical ideas concerning the nature of reality.

Philosophical Roots

It emphasizes perceiving beyond the senses to grasp the spiritual or ideal aspects of life.

Beyond Physical

19th century transcendentalism challenged established religious and cultural norms, advocating for individual intuition.

Historic Context

Recognize its strong influence on American literature, shaping the themes and styles of many writers.

Literary Impact

Transcendentalism in literature often celebrates personal freedom and individualism.

Individualism

In literature, transcendentalism frequently highlights a profound connection with nature.

Nature Focus

 a sanctuary of bravery and brilliance. I will ask that homeless man what his name is and how his day was, because sometimes all people want to be is human. I will tell that woman that my students can talk about transcendentalism like their last name was Thoreau, and just because you watched one episode of "The Wire" doesn't mean you know anything about my kids.