Roots Of Individualism In Euro Essay -- essays research papers

Roots of laissez faire in EuropeDuring the Middle Ages, independent thought was viewed disdainfully. Almost either idea deviating from the status quo, largely determined by the Ro homosexual Catholic Church, was condemned as heresy. One convicted of such a grievous offense was frequently excommunicated or killed, either by means of a proper carrying out or by a hostile mob. However, with the decline of the Middle Ages, the conditions arose for the blood line of individualismthe development of which can be traced through the Renaissance, the Reformation, and the bound of capitalism. identity was a radical ideological r organic evolution that forever altered the caseful of Europe and the rest of the creative activity.The beginning of individualisms inactive evolution was first manifested in the Renaissance Era. The Renaissance was a ripe date ready for change. The weakening role of the Catholic Church led to an ontogeny in power for the masses. Corruption plagued Church off icials and many sought theological respite elsewhere. The reemphasis of ancient Greek and Roman texts proffered alternatives for many to satisfy their religious needs. This helped contribute to the abolishment of the Churchs imposition of its absolute loyalty and its claim to ultimate authority. As the church lost power, so did the semipolitical units. The bonds between church and state began to erode. Feudalism declined, hence giving rise to new political opportunity. The noble class no longer held a monopoly on the valued positions in society. Rather, one was able to pursue wealth and fame through various endeavors ranging from artist to soldier.The most empowering change of this era was the restraint of a secular attitude and the decline of church absolutism. This secular point of view altered mans reason for existence from an otherworldly bay to an intimate, immediate appreciation for that which exists on earth. Humanism is a primary stem of individualism. Pico della Miran dolas Oration on the Dignity of Man captures the essence of the humane movement. He writes that God gave man the ability to make of himself what he wills. Although man is capable of depraved acts, he also possesses the profundity to distinguish him as a holy being. Pico praises the goodness of mankind when he writes, man is justly called and judged a great miracle ... ...the birth of capitalism liberated the goals and means of work. capitalist delivery allowed individuals to own and manage their own business and reflected the secular mind shed derived from the Renaissance Era. The individual is the unit on which capitalism is ground. Bonds between merchants was based on free competition rather that the need to trade. This liberating system of economy allows rise for the individual to direct his own business.Individualism developed with the gradual transfer of power from large establishments to the individual and his rights and opportunities as a portion of society. The importa nce and power of the individual was not fully realized until ideas were alter through the Renaissance, the Reformation, and the rise of capitalism. These movements helped Europe realize the latent potential indoors an individual. Until such progressive movements occurred, the individual was neglected. Today, one man can rush the downfall of a hundred because of his individual powerthis is directly cerebrate to many of the changes that begun in the fourteenth century. In fact without such transformations, the world would not stand as we know it today.