Analysis Of Thoreau s Walden s The Woods - 1153 Words

Transcendentalism is a philosophical movement that began in the early nineteenth century in America. One of the major tenets of transcendentalism is that society and social institutions corrupt the purity of an individual. Transcendentalists believe that individuals should believe in themselves and not conform to others’ beliefs. They think that society is a major reason why individuals lack self determination and the ability to possess their own values. Henry David Thoreau, one of the major transcendentalist composed a philosophical autobiography,Walden that captures his life experience in the wood. During his time in the woods, Thoreau finds himself embracing the simplicity of nature and shows distaste in the society that forces†¦show more content†¦He believes that slavery is an immoral action that should banned. He feels disturbed by the government for their involvements in the Mexican-American war and their actions in expanding slavery. Thoreau realizes that the government uses laws and restrictions forcefully to make individuals conform. In this way, individuals are forced to comply to the government actions despite opposing them. Thoreau refuses to pay his poll taxes as a way to protest the Mexican-American war and the expansion of slavery in the South. He believes that individuals should oppose the government by not paying for taxes if they believe that the government is corrupt. Thoreau’s opposition to the go vernment collides with transcendentalism because they believe that society corrupts the intuition of an individual. Transcendentalists encourage individuals to follow their own will and oppose to things they disagree with like the corruption of the government. In addition to the criticism of the government, Thoreau feels disappointed at people conforming to society’s standard. Thoreau prefers his old clothes than new and extravagant ones. â€Å"I say, beware of all enterprises that require new clothes, and not rather a new wearer of clothes. If there is not a new man, how can the new clothes be made to fit?†(Thoreau 26). He feels that his old clothes have adapt to fit in his body and it provide the basic need for