Legacies of the Puritans and the Rationalists
First Settlers' Puritanism and Rationalism Today
Feb 11, 2009
Combined, the two old schools of thought have shaped the basis of the constitutional democracy known at present. In modern society - government, social welfare, self-improvement aspects of the nation's life - representations of both Puritanism and Rationalism can be observed. These philosophical movements are the basis and foundation for many events and features of both past and current social and political life in America.
For example, some descendants of the first settlers, just like the Puritans, do not accept the idea that all the individuals might be initially equally good, still believing that only specific chosen ones are favored by God. At the same time equally strong is now Franklin's rationalistic cult of a self-made person, which declares that there is always space for self-reliance and perfectibility.
The Teaching of American Puritanism
The distinctive feature of puritan life and approach toward all the aspects of existence is simplicity. The Puritans believed simplicity, industriousness and temperance to be the best features of an individual, as well as of the society.
Puritanism has taught people to freely enter into agreements regarding government, that is - execute democratic rights. At the same time their own beliefs were not democratic at all, as it was proved by Salem Witchcraft Trials.
The Puritans' philosophy was based on the idea that all the events of a human life are ruled by God. From them the society inherited the industriousness, temperance, and simplicity thousands of Americans show in everyday life.
The plain vision of the Puritans established a foundation, on which rationalism grew up and matured along with the political and educational principles that developed into how they are known today. However, unlike Rationalists, Puritans didn't believe in good for all.
The Heritage of the Rationalists
Though nowadays some people still hold on to puritan views and lead a puritan life, relying on religious faith or intuition, as many prefer different understanding of the world - a rationalistic one. It states that the truth can be reached using reason, and that all the human beings are equal, as well as have equal rights and opportunities for perfection and self-improvement.
From the Rationalists people have learned to rely on own abilities instead of relying on God's will. From them people have learned to believe facts and evidence instead of intuition and hope.
Rationalists, building upon Puritans' achievements in education and state development, have devised another way of thinking. Though Rationalists did not deny God's majesty, they introduced the idea that a man can also contribute to one's goodness and wealth.
Source:
Arpin, Gary. "Beginngs". Elements of Literature. 5th Course. Literature of the United States with Literature of the Americas. Holt, Rinehart and Winston, 1997.
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