Transcendentalism

I would definitely qualify to be named a transcendentalist if I were alive during the 19th century. I adhere to the principle that a person should rely on himself or herself  for survival. I follow more closely to Emerson's than Fuller's ideas on what a transcendentalist should be. Before reading Emerson, I never thought of institutions (especially the past) as destroying one's inner self.  I do, however, believe that Thomas Paine's thoughts of government (being a "necessary evil") resonate with my personal views.  Emerson's belief that "no man can violate his nature" is misguided. Man is sinful and will (if allowed the opportunity) abuse what he is given. A government is necessary to protect its citizens from other nations and from each other. The historian, Lord Acton, confirms this belief by stating,  "Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely." The past, societies, charities, and governments can positively impact the present generation, and Emerson is relatively harsh on his critiquing of these institutions. "I am ashamed to think how easily we capitulate to badges and names, to large societies and dead instituitions."(Emerson--Self-Reliance) Having said this, I am not in favor of entitlement programs or a universal health care system as these would conflict with the pure concept of self-reliance. Also, the past is useful to an extent when faced with similar problems or opportunities. As the saying goes, "Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it." (George Santayana)