Roots of Individualism in Europe
During the Middle Ages, independent thought was viewed disdainfully. Almost any idea deviating from the status quo, largely determined by the Roman Catholic Church, was condemned as heresy. One convicted of such a grievous offense was often excommunicated or killed, either by means of a proper execution or by a hostile mob. However, with the decline of the Middle Ages, the conditions arose for the birth of individualism-the development of which can be traced through the Renaissance, the Reformation, and the rise of capitalism. Individualism was a radical ideological revolution that forever altered the face of Europe and the rest of the world. The beginning of individualism's gradual evolution was first manifested in the Renaissance Era. The Renaissance was a ripe time ready for change. The weakening role of the Catholic Church led to an increase in power for the masses. Corruption plagued Church officials and many sought theological respite elsewhere. The reemphasis of ancient Greek and Roman texts proffered alternatives for many to satisfy their religious needs. This helped contribute to the abolishment of the Church's imposition of its absolute truth and its claim to ultimate aut
hority. As the church lost power, so did the political units. The bonds between church and state began to erode. Feudalism declined, hence giving rise to new political opportunity. The noble class no longer held a monopoly on the valued positions in society. Rather, one was able to pursue wealth and fame through various endeavors ranging from artist to soldier. Lutheranism differs from Catholicism in the understanding and interpretation of three major areas: determination of salvation, source of truth, and basis of the church. The Catholic Church believed that salvation was achieved through God's grace. In other words, humans were at the mercy of God whether they were to be saved or not. Luther professed that faith was the necessary element for salvation. He wrote, "Faith redeems, corrects, and preserves our consciences so that we know that righteousness does not consist in works... our righteousness is not in them, but in faith". Humans, therefore, had the power of self-determination in relation to their salvation. Through faith, one could achieve salvation. The Catholic Church believed that priests, who held the power of absolution, and the pope were responsible to dictate the truth to the members of the church. Lutheranism, on the other hand, believed that the scripture was the source of truth as to be understood through individual interpretation. Thirdly, the Catholic Church felt that the church was composed and based upon the clergy and the hierarchy of church officials. Lutherans believed that the church was a result, a creation Individualism developed with the gradual transfer of power from large establishments to the individual and his rights and opportunities as a member of society. The importance and power of the individual was not fully realized until ideas were transformed through the Renaiss
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Approximate Word count = 1242
Approximate Pages = 5 (250 words per page double spaced)
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