New England Reformers (Primary source)
In New England Reformers, Emerson critiques the myriad social movements of his time. He argues that genuine, lasting reform must stem from an individual’s inner spiritual and moral transformation, rather than external, superficial changes or collective efforts.
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“A foolish consistency is the hobgoblin of little minds, adored by little statesmen and philosophers and divines.”
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— Ralph Waldo Emerson Primary sourceMore quotes by Ralph Waldo Emerson →
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