The Complexities of Transcendentalism: a Reflection on 'Into The Wild'

The philosophy of Transcendentalism, which emerged in the 19th century, emphasizes the importance of individualism, intuition, and spiritual relationships with nature. In Jon Krakauer's book, "Into The Wild," the main protagonist, Chris McCandless, seems to embody the ideas of Transcendentalism as he embarks on a quest for spiritual fulfillment through the exploration of the natural world. However, as his journey progresses, Chris's experiences reveal a number of challenges and limitations that suggest a more nuanced relationship between Transcendentalism and human nature.

One of the key tenets of Transcendentalism is the belief in the inherent goodness of human nature. This idea is reflected in Chris's decision to discard his possessions and embark on a journey of self-discovery. Through his travels, he encounters a number of kind and generous individuals who offer him assistance and support along the way. Moreover, his relationship with nature serves as a source of solace and inspiration, leading him to appreciate the beauty and simplicity of the natural world.

Despite these positive aspects of Chris's journey, his experiences also reveal some of the limitations of Transcendentalism. For example, his decision to cut off all ties with his family and friends suggests a disregard for social relationships and emotional connections. Moreover, his decision to venture into the wilderness alone reflects a potentially dangerous belief in self-reliance and a reluctance to accept the help of others. In these ways, Chris's journey highlights some of the potential risks of embracing Transcendentalism without considering the importance of social relationships and human community.

Another important aspect of Transcendentalism that is reflected in Chris's journey is the emphasis on intuition and personal experience. Chris frequently relies on his own instincts and intuition to guide him through his travels, rather than relying on conventional wisdom or societal norms. For example, he discards his map and navigates using his own sense of direction, often taking unconventional routes that lead him into unfamiliar territory. In this way, Chris's journey reflects a deep trust in his own abilities and a willingness to challenge conventional thinking in pursuit of spiritual fulfillment.

However, this emphasis on intuition and individualism also has its limitations. As Chris's journey progresses, he becomes increasingly isolated and detached from those around him, leading to a sense of loneliness and alienation. Moreover, his disregard for conventional wisdom and societal norms ultimately leads to his demise, as he fails to adequately prepare for the harsh realities of the Alaskan wilderness. In these ways, Chris's journey highlights the potential risks of prioritizing intuition and individualism over social responsibility and practical thinking.

Finally, Chris's journey also reveals some of the tensions between Transcendentalism and modern society. Throughout his travels, Chris expresses a deep sense of disillusionment with the materialism and consumerism of contemporary American culture. He rejects the trappings of modern society, such as money and possessions, in favor of a simpler and more natural way of life. In this way, Chris's journey reflects a broader critique of modern society and its values.

However, this critique is not without its limitations. Chris's rejection of modern society ultimately leads him to a place of extreme isolation and peril, highlighting the risks of completely rejecting the values and structures of contemporary culture. Moreover, his disdain for material possessions and social relationships suggests a potentially nihilistic worldview that could lead to a rejection of the very values that sustain human society.

In conclusion, "Into The Wild" offers a fascinating exploration of the ideas of Transcendentalism and their relevance to modern society. While Chris's journey reflects many of the key tenets of Transcendentalism, it also highlights some of its potential limitations and risks. By examining these tensions, we can gain a deeper understanding of the ways in which Transcendentalism can both inspire and challenge us as individuals and as members of a broader community.