Transcendentalism

usgb/ˌtrænsenˈdentəlɪzəm/
noun

A philosophy that values the spiritual over the physical and suggests the existence of an ideal, spiritual reality that transcends the physical world.

Ralph Waldo Emerson was one of the key figures of the transcendentalism movement in the 19th century.
Visual representation of "transcendentalism" - A philosophy that values the spiritual over the physical and suggests the existence of an ideal, spiritual reality that transcends the physical world.

Often appears as...

  • american transcendentalism
  • transcendentalism movement

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Academic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "transcendentalism"
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Philosophical Roots

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

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She studied transcendentalism to explore philosophical questions.
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Beyond Physical

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

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Through transcendentalism, he sought meaning beyond material possessions.
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Historic Context

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

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Transcendentalism arose as a reaction to the rigid state of 1800s society.
Visual representation of the word "Transcendentalism"

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