Beginning of Essay
It was a reaction against the Enlightenment and yet akin in that they both assumed life was designed for human happiness. However the Enlightenment placed reason at the center of human acheivement. m distrusted the human intellect and placed its value on the emot ....

Middle of Essay
.... as an example of that human potential. They were to follow the inner conscience, even if driven through conscience, to defy the state. It built on the principles of individualism, self reliance, strength and confidence to strike out on own. They were critical of government, laws, social institutions, debasing commercialism and whatever kept humans from reaching their highest potential. They took a PollyAnna attitude that everything will turn out. Emerson taught "Trust thyself. Every heart vibrates to that iron string." Listeners who attended Emerson's lectures were inspired with a spirit of optimism. Utopian communities were established where th ....