Emerson's message is one of non-conformity and individuality. He views every man as unique within, and feels society, exterior elements and tradition are man's downfall. He urges us to be a product of ourselves, to live in the present, rather than measure our worth against man's past accomplishments or live by old ideas.

There is contrast in Whitman's view, which embraces all society, and that which surrounds

These scholars, in their quest for excellence both revert back to simplicity. In both works children, and child-like thought are exalted. Emerson is awes at the freedom of a child, seeing it as god-like independence. He says a child conforms to no one, but rather all conform to the child. Whitman speaks of the wonder of a child contemplating what grass is.

The two express similar ideas about God- who or what he is, and where he can be found. Emerson speaks of man's nature, or natural law: "No law is sacred than that of my own nature. God is found in all nature- we are one with nature and God." This quote nearly encompasses Whitman's own ideas of God and nature. Both men agree God is found within; God is in your self.

Yet in their description of man's innermost thought they share a nearly identical ideal. Emerson states that "genius" is "to believe that what is true for you in your private heart, is true for al

Some common words found in the essay are:
Emerson American, Views Self, Whitman Emerson, Self Reliance, Whitman American, nature god, self reliance, god found,
Approximate Word count = 623
Approximate Pages = 2 (250 words per page double spaced)