What concept is central to Transcendentalism?

The fundamental goodness of people and nature is a cornerstone of Transcendentalism, a philosophical movement that emerged in the early 19th century. Transcendentalists, such as Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau, argued that individuals are inherently good and that society and its institutions often corrupt this purity. They believed in the innate goodness found within both humans and the natural world, emphasizing that understanding and insight could be gained through personal intuition rather than solely through traditional authority or organized religion.

This perspective encourages individuals to trust their instincts and connect deeply with nature, reflecting the idea that personal spiritual experiences are more valuable than established doctrines. Through this lens, Transcendentalism underscores the value of a harmonious relationship between humanity and the natural environment, advocating for a deep appreciation of nature as a source of inspiration and truth. This belief contrasts with viewpoints that focus on societal corruption, empirical science, or the exploration of subconscious thoughts, as those themes do not encapsulate the core ethos of Transcendental thought.