Intelligent Quotes

The American Scholar

Delivered as a commencement address at Harvard, this speech was famously dubbed America’s Intellectual Declaration of Independence by Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr., an American polymath. Emerson urged American intellectuals to break free from European traditions and cultivate a uniquely American voice and scholarship, emphasizing the role of the scholar as Man Thinking.

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Summary

Ralph Waldo Emerson’s speech, The American Scholar, delivered on August 31, 1837, to the Phi Beta Kappa Society at Harvard University, is widely considered a pivotal moment in American intellectual history. Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr. famously dubbed it America’s Intellectual Declaration of Independence, as it passionately urged American scholars to forge their own unique identity, free from the derivative influence of European thought.

Emerson begins by lamenting the fragmented state of humanity, where individuals perform only specialized tasks rather than embodying the complete Man (referring to humankind). He argues that the scholar, in particular, has become separated from the whole, reduced to a mere thinker rather than Man Thinking. His central purpose in the address is to reunite these elements, advocating for a holistic individual who integrates thought with experience.

He then outlines the three primary influences that shape the scholar: Nature, Books, and Action:

First, Nature is presented as the primary teacher. Emerson argues that the scholar must observe and engage with the natural world directly, rather than relying solely on abstract theories. Nature provides a constant source of inspiration, spiritual insight, and an understanding of universal laws that govern both the physical and moral realms. By immersing himself in nature, the scholar learns to perceive the underlying unity and truth, realizing that the facts which are at first without us, become a part of us.

Second, Books are acknowledged as a crucial influence, serving as the best of things, well used; abused, among the worst. While books are invaluable for preserving the wisdom of past generations, Emerson cautions against their misuse. He warns against becoming a mere bibliomaniac or a bookworm, someone who passively absorbs information without critical engagement or original thought. Books should be an inspiration, not an end in themselves; they should stimulate new thinking, not stifle it. The scholar must be an active interpreter, not just a passive recipient, always seeking to translate the written word into living thought.

Third, Action is presented as the indispensable complement to thought. Emerson asserts that Life is our dictionary. The scholar must engage with the world, take part in practical affairs, and experience life firsthand. Action provides the necessary data for thought, testing theories against reality and enriching the scholar’s understanding. Without action, thought becomes sterile and unproductive; conversely, action without thought lacks direction. The scholar’s duty is not just to observe, but to participate, to live fully, and to translate insights into tangible contributions to society.

Emerson concludes by emphasizing the scholar’s vital role in society. The American scholar, he proclaims, must be self-reliant, brave, and independent, trusting their own intuition and judgment above societal pressures or popular opinion. The scholar is the world’s eye, responsible for articulating the truths that others may dimly perceive, and for guiding society towards a more enlightened future. He urges his audience to cast off intellectual timidity, embrace originality, and recognize the inherent divinity within every individual, thereby creating a truly independent and powerful American intellect.

Quotes from The American Scholar

“Character is higher than intellect.”

Ralph Waldo Emerson (verified)

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