Final answer:
Nineteenth-century transcendentalists believed it was important for people to think for themselves, reflecting their values of self-reliance and individuality. Figures like Thoreau and Emerson encouraged a deliberate lifestyle and seeking internal conviction over society's expectations.
Step-by-step explanation:
Transcendentalists of the nineteenth century believed an important goal for the general public was to think for themselves. This reflects the transcendentalist emphasis on individuality, self-reliance, and a personal connection with the divine or the universe.
Transcendentalism valued the idea of achieving a mystical oneness with the universe, transcending the limits of intellect and reason. Notable figures like Henry David Thoreau and Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote works like "Walden" and "The American Scholar" that showcase these beliefs. They advocated for living a deliberate and simple life, one where individuals act on the inspiration provided by their inner convictions rather than societal expectations or institutions.
A core aspect of transcendentalist philosophy is the dignity and importance of the individual, viewing everyone as capable and responsible for seeking truth and meaning in their lives independently. Their literary works and social activism, such as support for abolitionism and women's rights, were informed by these convictions.
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