Argumentative Essay on Transcendentalism

When was the last time you sat down in nature and looked around? For many people, the hustle and bustle of our daily lives means that we do not often find ourselves contemplating the beauty of nature. Even the simplest and ordinary aspects of nature, such as a single blade of grass, can become complex and extraordinary when we view it from different perspectives. In transcendentalist poetry and literature, nature is a key aspect that many authors use to highlight the importance of staying in touch with God and oneself. “A Song of Myself,” by Walt Whitman, emphasizes this transcendentalist approach through the use of nature as a passageway to achieving a direct relationship with the divine and as a guide to individualistic self-discovery that expands beyond worldly experience. With the combination of these elements, Whitman hopes to inspire the reader to get lost in nature, as it is the only place where one can truly understand themselves and the cosmos around them.

Transcendentalism is the idea that all people have knowledge that “transcends” beyond their physical bodies. The bond between the individual and the divine is perhaps the most important aspect of transcendentalism, and this bond is achieved through the individual’s connection with nature. “A Song of Myself” explores this relationship, as Whitman believes “the hand of God is the elder hand of my own” and “the spirit of God is the eldest brother of my own” (Whitman 82-83). In this way, Whitman views God as being part of himself rather than a separate being. Nature, God, and man are all interconnected in a web of life and it is only through becoming one with nature that one can become closer to the divine.

Although people who practiced transcendentalist principles believed in God, they did not have the same views about God being a separate entity nor did they follow specific religious practices. Their non-conformist perspectives went against what the Unitarian church would accept, which is why Whitman’s views were seen as radical at the time. Transcendentalists like Whitman believed that it is only through truly understanding nature that one can achieve a more direct relationship with God. But rather than focusing on religious principles, transcendentalism emphasizes the concept of the “over-soul.” This “over-soul” is a divine spirit present in all beings and helps to form a “cosmic unity” between man, God, and nature—a belief that is more personal and individualistic in approach. (Manzari). Similarly, Whitman highlighted that the relationship between God and oneself should be more intimate, rather than shared with others like in organized religion. Nature acts as a gateway to achieving this relationship which leads to the acquisition of knowledge and self-actualization that transcends beyond physical limits.

In the 19th century, the attitude towards nature was more analytical and scientific in approach, as people viewed nature as something to be studied rather than experienced. However, transcendentalists believed that nature is not subordinate to man, but rather that man and nature are interconnected. Whitman viewed himself as part of nature, as he described the atmosphere of nature as being his “respiration and inspiration” (Whitman 15). To forge this relationship, however, one must embrace the odorless and inviting atmosphere of nature and live a life free from the intoxicating “perfumes” of society. This relationship allows man to open up and let the “kosmos” flow through, achieving a sense of harmony with oneself and nature (Merrill).

In an increasingly modernized world that stressed conformity, industrialization was taking away nature from man and suppressing individuality, as people were seen as tools in a factory rather than individuals with thoughts and feelings. Transcendentalists were opposed to the materialism of the modern age, thus supporting the notion of a self-sufficient man and embracing individualism above all else. Nature then became the pathway one could take to discover their true essence. It is only when one becomes fully immersed in nature that one can “reconnect with the organic nature of the self.” This transcendental belief rejected the conformist, religious views that tended to confine and repress the development of the individual, rather than cultivate it. (Baratta). Whitman certainly stresses the importance of individualism in “A Song of Myself” when he claims that although he can help guide you on a “road” to self-discovery, “not I, not anyone else can travel that road for you, you must travel it for yourself” (Whitman 1207-1208). Whitman’s goal was to support the notion that the individual is part of nature, and it is only when one is completely immersed that one can discover their true self that transcends their corporeal existence.

In transcendentalism, an intense immersion of oneself in nature is desired to create an intimate relationship with God and to discover one’s true potential that reaches beyond the sphere of earthly experience. Nature, therefore, acts as a spiritual guide that enables one to live a life free from the constraints and pressures of society. Unlike the Unitarian church, transcendentalists believed that God is found within oneself and it is only through the merging of oneself with nature that one will be able to create and foster a close and personal relationship with God. When it comes to the individual, nature aids in the cultivation of an individual’s potential which extends beyond the physical realm. Industrialism and scientific advancements overlooked the importance of individualism in favor of a more mechanized and objective view of people and nature. Transcendentalists like Whitman hoped to promote the idea of the self-reliant man, as one who “must habit yourself to the dazzle of the light and every moment of your life” (Whitman 1227). Like leaves of grass, each individual is unique yet connected to every other being and creature in nature and the over-arching universe. However, unlike the oppressive nature of society, nature does not judge or shame you—it sets you free.

Essay on Party at Lake Derrick

Introduction:

The sun was shining brightly, casting a warm glow over the picturesque Lake Derrick. It was the perfect setting for a summer party, and the anticipation in the air was palpable. The sound of laughter and music filled the atmosphere as friends and family gathered for a day of fun and relaxation. This narrative essay aims to recount the unforgettable experience of a party at Lake Derrick, where memories were made, and bonds were strengthened.

Body:

Setting the Scene:

As I arrived at Lake Derrick, I was immediately captivated by its natural beauty. The shimmering blue waters stretched out before me, inviting me to dive in and join the festivities. The lush green surroundings provided shade and a sense of tranquility, creating the perfect backdrop for a memorable day.

Festivities Begin:

As the day progressed, the party came to life. The air was filled with the aroma of sizzling barbecue, and the sound of upbeat music set the rhythm for the gathering. The atmosphere was vibrant, with friends mingling and laughter echoing across the shoreline. The excitement was contagious, and everyone was eager to make the most of the day.

Water Adventures:

One of the highlights of the party was the wide array of water activities available. Some chose to relax on inflatable floats, lazily drifting across the calm waters, while others engaged in friendly competitions of beach volleyball or paddleboarding. The glistening lake provided a refreshing respite from the summer heat, and everyone embraced the opportunity to splash, swim, and enjoy the water to their heart’s content.

Delicious Delights:

Food played a central role in the party, with a feast fit for kings and queens. The tantalizing aroma of grilled burgers, juicy watermelon, and freshly baked treats wafted through the air, enticing everyone to indulge in the culinary delights. Conversations and laughter were accompanied by the clinking of glasses, as people savored delicious beverages and shared stories of their adventures.

Bonding and Connections:

The party at Lake Derrick provided an opportunity for old friends to reconnect and new friendships to blossom. The casual and carefree atmosphere encouraged genuine conversations and laughter that brought people closer together. Whether it was sharing childhood memories, exchanging stories of recent travels, or simply enjoying each other’s company, the party fostered a sense of belonging and strengthened the bonds between friends and family.

Sunset Reflections:

As the sun began its descent, casting a golden hue over the lake, a sense of tranquility settled upon the gathering. People gathered near the water’s edge, basking in the serene beauty of the moment. The laughter and music softened, replaced by hushed conversations and contented sighs. It was a time for reflection, gratitude, and appreciation of the joyous day shared with loved ones.

Conclusion:

The party at Lake Derrick was an unforgettable experience, filled with laughter, fun, and a sense of camaraderie. It was a day where worries were set aside, and the simple pleasures of life took center stage. The picturesque setting, the vibrant atmosphere, and the genuine connections made during the gathering created lasting memories that would be cherished for years to come. The party at Lake Derrick served as a reminder of the importance of celebration, togetherness, and the beauty of nature in creating unforgettable moments in life.

Importance of Natural Environment

People are considered to be the most intelligent creatures on Earth who are able to learn new things in the universe which can lead them to the technological advancement. It goes without saying that there are many benefits in technological development for the economy but it also destroys our environment gradually. We develop technologies and science to make our life better but we do not fall to thinking that it can ruin everything that surround us in the near future. The destructive human activity causes several adverse effects on environment. The effects of pollution are devastative. It is very important to explore the various types of pollution and all possible ways of their prevention in order to make our planet a safe place for the growth and development of all living things.

Water pollution is one of the pivotal problems nowadays. A lot of garbage is thrown directly into the water. Moreover, a lot of factories, mills, and plants discharge the untreated industrial wastes and other unsafe substances into the water bodies. Water is also polluted by fertilizations and pesticides which are widely used in agriculture. The contamination of the living environment leads to the deaths of the entire natural ecosystems. There are many approaches to garbage utilization but most of the poor countries just don`t have enough money to introduce such up-to-date technologies. Air pollution is another humanity`s challenge. The air we breathe has contaminated because of uncontrolled release of harmful vehicular and industrial smokes. Burning fuels, nitrogen oxides, sulphur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and chemical vapours are the major pollutants of the air. Sulphur dioxide and carbon dioxide cause a situation called Global warming when the radiation is absorbed while the heat is prevented from escaping. Our environment also suffers from noise pollution which has negative effects on people and wild species.

Environment plays a significant role in making our existence on the planet possible. Everything we use to live a full life comes under the environment. We just can`t live without air, water, land, sunlight, animals, and other natural things. Environmental pollution is affecting our lives physically, emotionally, socially, economically, and intellectually. It has become a major worldwide issue which cannot be solved by the effort of one. We should do our best in order not to put the end to the existence of all living things on earth. Every person on our planet should take a little step to save our environment and maintain its originality.

We should reduce water wastage, save energy, use rechargeable batteries, reuse our old things in new ways, and throw wastes properly to its place only. People use the components of the environment to full fil their basic needs of living. We should stop polluting and challenging our national resources to ensure sustainable living conditions for our future generations. The usage of non-conventional sources of energy should be encouraged. Restriction on the use of fossil fuels and pollution control laws should be imposed strictly. We have to control the emission of greenhouse gases strictly to save our environment from the threat of Global warming.

We truly cannot understand the real worth of the environment. But we can estimate some of its importance that can help us understand its importance. It plays a vital role in keeping living things healthy in the environment.

Likewise, it maintains the ecological balance that will keep check of life on earth. It provides food, shelter, air, and full fills all the human needs whether big or small.

Moreover, the entire life support of humans depends wholly on the environmental factors. In addition, it also helps in maintaining various life cycles on earth.

Most importantly, our environment is the source of natural beauty and is necessary for maintaining physical and mental health.

The environment gives us countless benefits that we can’t repay our entire life. As they are connected with the forest, trees, animals, water, and air. The forest and trees filter the air and absorb harmful gases. Plants purify water, reduce the chances of flood maintain natural balance and many others.

The remarkable growth of technological progress has negative impact on the ecological state of our planet. The work of factories and plants and the extraction of natural resources result in serious environmental problems that call for radical actions for environmental rehabilitation and protection. The influence of the devastative human activity shouldn`t be ignored. We should contribute every day to the preservation of our natural environment. Mankind should be sure that technological advances would never disturb the ecological balance of the Earth. Environmental problems should be handled by the united efforts of the global community. Nowadays, a lot of international summits, conferences, and presentations are held to deal with recycling, waste treatment, and water and soil contamination. We should always remember that environmental pollution is an incurable disease. It can only be prevented. So, let`s take care of the world that surrounds us.

What Is Environmental Science: Perspective Essay

The environment needs to be studied in all aspects. That’s why many different scientists and volunteers help study the environment. This is called environmental science, an interdisciplinary scientific field that combines physics, biology, and geography (including ecology, chemistry, plant science, zoology, mineralogy, oceanography, limnology, soil science, geology and physical geography, and atmospheric science) to study the environment and solve environmental problems. Emerging from the fields of natural history and medicine during the Enlightenment, environmental science today provides an integrated, quantitative, and interdisciplinary approach to the study of environmental systems.

Studying and understanding how the environment and people affect each other is one goal of environmental scientists. People have changed the environment wherever they have gone. It has been like this since the beginning of time. Even hunter-gatherer groups who scavenge and hunt for food have changed the environment. Some of these groups and tribes set fires on grasslands and prairies to shape the land how they wanted it. Many people groups turned to farming instead of only hunting and scavenging. This was called the agricultural revolution. After that, the human population started to skyrocket. The Industrial Revolution changed what energy sources we use. When this happened, factories and machines were started and produced. This made work and life much easier but had an extremely negative impact on the environment. Climate change, pollution, environmental degradation, and resource depletion are just some of the problems caused by such human impacts.

This is where scientists come into play. By studying the environment and tracking changes in it, they not only give the present state but also predict what may happen in the future, based on current problems and circumstances, as well as provide recommendations on how to avoid it all. As such, they play a key role in how we can keep our environment sustainable.

The beauty of our natural environment, its diversity, and the possibilities of wildlife and nature have always fascinated me. I have a heightened sense of responsibility to protect the world’s natural beauty as the consequences of the complex environmental challenges we face become increasingly apparent through shocking scientific discoveries and media coverage. Seeing the effects of climate change today has made me passionately committed to protecting the future of our planet from destruction. For me, environmental science is not only the study of the complexity of the environment and its relationship with people but also an important step in fulfilling this responsibility to make the necessary changes. That is why I consider this branch of science very important.

What Is Environmental Science: Perspective Essay

The environment needs to be studied in all aspects. That’s why many different scientists and volunteers help study the environment. This is called environmental science, an interdisciplinary scientific field that combines physics, biology, and geography (including ecology, chemistry, plant science, zoology, mineralogy, oceanography, limnology, soil science, geology and physical geography, and atmospheric science) to study the environment and solve environmental problems. Emerging from the fields of natural history and medicine during the Enlightenment, environmental science today provides an integrated, quantitative, and interdisciplinary approach to the study of environmental systems.

Studying and understanding how the environment and people affect each other is one goal of environmental scientists. People have changed the environment wherever they have gone. It has been like this since the beginning of time. Even hunter-gatherer groups who scavenge and hunt for food have changed the environment. Some of these groups and tribes set fires on grasslands and prairies to shape the land how they wanted it. Many people groups turned to farming instead of only hunting and scavenging. This was called the agricultural revolution. After that, the human population started to skyrocket. The Industrial Revolution changed what energy sources we use. When this happened, factories and machines were started and produced. This made work and life much easier but had an extremely negative impact on the environment. Climate change, pollution, environmental degradation, and resource depletion are just some of the problems caused by such human impacts.

This is where scientists come into play. By studying the environment and tracking changes in it, they not only give the present state but also predict what may happen in the future, based on current problems and circumstances, as well as provide recommendations on how to avoid it all. As such, they play a key role in how we can keep our environment sustainable.

The beauty of our natural environment, its diversity, and the possibilities of wildlife and nature have always fascinated me. I have a heightened sense of responsibility to protect the world’s natural beauty as the consequences of the complex environmental challenges we face become increasingly apparent through shocking scientific discoveries and media coverage. Seeing the effects of climate change today has made me passionately committed to protecting the future of our planet from destruction. For me, environmental science is not only the study of the complexity of the environment and its relationship with people but also an important step in fulfilling this responsibility to make the necessary changes. That is why I consider this branch of science very important.