Question

Which best describes Emerson’s central message to his contemporaries in "Self-Reliance"?

Answer 1

He gives deep emphasis on the importance of self-reliance.  For all of us, the true measure of a person’s independence and strength on how he fends for himself.  The more independent and self-reliant a person is, the stronger people perceive him to be. Being self-reliant is essential for us to survive in society.  We cannot rely on others if we want to make it in this world.  Only by being self-reliant can we truly be free and strong.