The Tension Between Conformity and Nonconformity

 

In Reading Ralph Waldo Emerson's Self-Reliance: The Tension Between Conformity and Nonconformity

Charcoal portrait of Ralph Waldo Emerson by artist Eastman Johnson, 1846. Part of the personal collection of friend Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.

This past week in AP Language and Composition and English 11, we explored the timeless tension between conformity and nonconformity, guided by the thought-provoking ideas of Ralph Waldo Emerson and the biblical teachings of Jesus. Our discussions centered on how society pressures individuals to conform, yet greatness often requires standing apart—even at the cost of misunderstanding or rejection. Students reflected on the advantages and disadvantages of conformity and drew connections to historical, literary, and personal examples of nonconformity.

As Emerson famously declared in Self-Reliance, “To be great is to be misunderstood,” and Jesus similarly reminded His followers in John 15:18-19, “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first.” These texts challenge us to consider how we navigate the balance between fitting in and staying true to ourselves.

Below are some highlighted quotes from student essays that stood out during this week’s study:

1. On the Nature of Conformity:

   • “Conformity may feel like a shield, protecting us from criticism, but it can also stifle what makes us unique.”
   • “Even though sometimes the rules make us feel tired or think it is unnecessary, they are the key part to making our society work.”

2. On Nonconformity and Individuality:

   • “We are born to be different individuals because we all have distinct traits built by our own background, characters, and past experiences.”
   • “Realizing our own traits and trying to be nonconformist is always the start of the discovery of ourselves.”

3. Connecting Nonconformity to Greatness:

   • “Hamilton’s story is a good example to encourage us to be nonconformists. He didn’t just follow others but challenged established institutions, which went against the prevailing ideas at the time.”
   • “Sometimes, conformity will shadow what makes us unique. Just as Emerson claimed in Self-Reliance, if everybody was the same and followed the same rules, there would be no change.”

4. Personal Reflections:

   • “I also felt misunderstood when I stood up for what I believed. It was lonely, but remembering Emerson’s words and Jesus’ teaching helped me. They showed me that it is okay to be different because it means you are strong.”
   • “What are you conforming to, and what should you be conforming to? God sent us the Holy Spirit to give us discernment and strength when it comes to making these choices.”

5. Biblical Perspective:

   • “If this sinful, lost world hates you, you’re living out the truths of God’s word. It wouldn’t make sense for a sinful, lost world to like a Godly, righteous person who’s leading others to Christ.”

Through their essays, students have demonstrated a deep understanding of how conformity and nonconformity shape not only individual lives but also the world at large. As we navigate our own lives, these reflections remind us of the courage it takes to stand apart and the strength found in staying true to our values. 

Let us continue to ask ourselves: What are we conforming to, and where might we find the strength to choose a different path?