Book 2, Essays : Chapter 8, Essays 4 - 6 Summary and Analysis

IV Spiritual Laws: Emerson writes that people can trust themselves and their mental reflection - considerations of the past and review of the history show that this is the case. "There is less intention in history than we ascribe to it," (p.306). Emerson's comment directly refutes the claim made by Hegel and by other theologians and philosophers that the events of history are directly purposive. Not only that, but they are indicative of an unquestionable and inexorable spiritual evolution. God directing world, set in motion...just as a baby will grow into an adult as long this process is not forcibly and unnaturally ended - the world will turn and society will develop such that all will be saved and humanity will be drawn ever closer to perfection. These ideas coexisted at the...