Lauren Schaaf- Emerson

I had to read Emerson’s Nature essay for my environmental leadership class earlier this week. In it, he addressed the concept of beauty relating to the natural world. Emerson argued that all natural things are beautiful and this judgement is based on our perception and emotions. I’ve always found the natural world exceptionally beautiful. It was interesting to read another man’s perspective on his belief that essentially anything the light touches is innately beautiful. This is a different take compared to how we’ve been discussing the beauty of art lately but is related to our discussion of ritual and human interactions which according to Emerson would be described as beautiful. I have a hard time fully appreciating art museums although I appreciate the human aspect of the talent of the strokes and dedication. However, I am endlessly fascinated with the landscapes found in nature. My environmental leadership teacher discussed the diversity of leaves and snowflakes in nature which are infinitely different. A concept not conceivable in our man-made world. This is where I find the most amount of beauty in my life personally. I admire architecture and the technology that humans are able to design. I love the study of the human brain and the complexity of which we interact with each other and the world around us. However, there is a part of me that is not whole until I am reunited with nature. I also agree with the concept that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. It is a very subjective concept that differs from person to person. Our brains allow us to conceptualize things to a deeper level to that of our fellow beings. Nature is something simple, fulfilling and our connection with our most basic and natural roots.

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