Which of the following best describes the between Emerson’s and Thoreau’s central beliefs?
A. They both lectured on the importance of the inner light.
B. They both believed the human spirit was reflected in nature.
C. They both considered the rise of cities was harming the nation.
D. They both believed the individual decides what is right and wrong.
D. They both believed the individual decides what is right and wrong.
To determine which of the options best describes the relationship between Emerson's and Thoreau's central beliefs, we can analyze their key ideas and philosophies.
Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau were both transcendentalist thinkers who emerged in the mid-19th century. While they had similar beliefs and were close friends, they also had some distinct differences in their ideologies.
Option A states that both Emerson and Thoreau lectured on the importance of the inner light. However, this is not an accurate description of their central beliefs. The concept of the "inner light" is more closely associated with the Quaker tradition, whereas Emerson and Thoreau's philosophies were centered around transcendentalism.
Option B suggests that both Emerson and Thoreau believed that the human spirit was reflected in nature. This option accurately represents their central beliefs. Both writers emphasized the significance of nature as a source of inspiration, spiritual connection, and a reflection of the human experience. Nature was considered a fundamental aspect through which individuals could access their inner selves and gain a deeper understanding of the world.
Option C states that both Emerson and Thoreau believed that the rise of cities was harming the nation. Although they both were critical of certain aspects of urbanization, this perspective was more prominent in Thoreau's writings. Emerson, on the other hand, focused more on spiritual and moral individualism rather than urbanization.
Option D suggests that both Emerson and Thoreau believed that the individual decides what is right and wrong. While both thinkers emphasized the importance of individualism and personal experience, they approached the concept of morality differently. Emerson focused on self-reliance and the intuitive knowledge of right and wrong within each individual, whereas Thoreau's perspective on morality was more strongly influenced by his views on civil disobedience and the obligation to act against unjust laws.
Considering these factors, it can be concluded that Option B, which states that both Emerson and Thoreau believed the human spirit was reflected in nature, best describes the relationship between Emerson's and Thoreau's central beliefs.