How would you define Emerson's idea of "mean egotism"?
To find specific passages on webpages, use Ctrl + F and type in what you're looking for -- in this case, you'd type in mean egotism.
http://www.emersoncentral.com/nature1.htm
http://www.wsu.edu/~campbelld/amlit/amtrans.htm
http://www.esoteric.msu.edu/VolumeVI/emersongnosis.htm
To define Emerson's idea of "mean egotism," we can turn to Ralph Waldo Emerson's essay titled "Self-Reliance." In this essay, Emerson discusses the concept of individualism and the importance of self-reliance in one's life.
Emerson's notion of "mean egotism" refers to a negative form of self-centeredness or selfishness. It involves being excessively focused on oneself and one's own interests at the expense of others. It can be understood as a self-centeredness that lacks depth or substance.
To understand this idea further, it is helpful to read Emerson's essay where he elucidates his philosophy. "Self-Reliance" emphasizes the value of trusting one's own instincts and beliefs, encouraging individuals to think independently and not conform to societal expectations. Emerson promotes the idea that individuals should follow their own intuition and listen to their inner voice, rather than relying on others for approval or validation. While Emerson celebrates self-reliance and the pursuit of one's individual path, he criticizes the idea of egotism that is devoid of virtue, generosity, and consideration for others.
To get a comprehensive grasp of Emerson's concept of "mean egotism," I suggest reading or referring to the essay "Self-Reliance" where he elaborates on this idea in greater detail. Understanding the broader context and Emerson's philosophy will allow for a richer interpretation of his concept.