The American Scholar

In Emerson’s essay, “The American Scholar,” Emerson constructs a “roadmap” for the students of Phi Beta Kappa Society in his efforts to address and initiate a “new intellectual tradition…based on individual freedoms,” personal beliefs, and one’s “ideal self.” Emerson paints a picture of the new American scholar, a “Man–thinking”, one free to view the world with an open mind, one who can "defer never to the popular cry,” primarily one who is not influenced from past, traditional ideas and European culture. Emerson’s scholar relies on nature as a teacher to understanding and interpreting his own soul, as well as books from the past, which can be dangerous yet beneficial if one knows how to interpret and gain knowledge from reading. Emerson also calls for the scholar to take action stating, “Action is with the scholar subordinate, but it is essential." Such action will be beneficial to society, and the active scholar will profit from a more affluent existence, "a great soul will be strong to live, as well as strong to think." In conclusion, Emerson lists specific duties that the scholar must assume, specifically self-trust “to cheer, to raise, and to guide men by showing them facts amidst appearances.”

When I compare myself to Emerson’s ideology for the prime American scholar, I see similarities and differences, strengths and weaknesses in myself. Because of this, I would say I am, and am not, the kind of scholar Emerson describes. Certain characteristics define me, such as viewing the world with an open mind and obtaining knowledge from books while being able to filter out “dangerous” material. I feel confident in “knowing” myself, my capabilities, and my beliefs and am therefore able to interpret any negative teachings that may be presented to me. However, I am always open to letting others express their thoughts and beliefs before judging them as invalid. If one’s view is precarious, I also try to understand where they are coming from.  

My roadmap for my studies is similar to Emerson’s. It differs in a sense that sometimes I look for a simpler solution, such as when I procrastinate in my studies and take the easy way out by not reading material or studying to the best of my abilities for a test. I also differ from Emerson’s scholar because I hesitate to take action when I am in doubt and I let my insecurities restrain me. In spite of this, when I am confident in my decisions, I am the first to take action. I also think it is natural of any man to find difficulty in deferring the popular cry. It takes complete self-control and trust to defer the popular cry, and sometimes I find it hard to withstand deferment. 

In conclusion, I think Emerson’s ideas are workable and that there is a great amount of knowledge and empowerment in his essay. His ideas are simple: take everything in with an open mind, but in accordance with what you believe, interpret and dispose of any dangerous principles. Know yourself and do not give into the popular ideas of society. Take action to enrich yourself and society, providing leadership and guidance for your fellow contemporaries. In my personal growth as a student, I will employ Emerson’s action and leadership viewpoints into my studies because I see this as my weakness. I will also try to initiate more self-control when it comes to completing my homework and more self-trust into my everyday life so that I will not hesitate to take action because of my insecurities. Emerson’s essays have been very empowering and influential for me, and I am grateful for the wisdom he has handed down to American scholars like us today.