... man is the man who can rise above societal pressures, establish an identity of his own where the man lives for himself, and relies only upon a man's self in forging ahead. In addition, this ultimate man, in practicing this selfish identity, takes no account of the advice or aid offered by friends, family or co-workers, nor does he feel the ... "(12). Here, I believe, is potentially the most damaging aspect of the Transcendentalist philosophy of individualism. Where would our country be without the selfless, philanthropic endeavors of such great men as John D. Rockefeller, Andrew Carnegie...

• Word Count: 1633
• Approx Pages: 7
• Grade Level: Undergraduate