The attitudes of leading New England transcendentalists toward healthful exercise, active recreation and proper care of the body: 1830-1860.

Mid-twentieth century America, it would seem, is experiencing a period of deep social, intellectual, moral and spiritual discontent. Critics proclaim what they see to be an obsession with material values, rampant commercialism in all areas of life, excessive competition, a deteriorating environment, violence, intemperance and the like. Many commentators plead for a more natural, a more humanistic, a more sympathetic approach to life — toward what is sometimes referred to as “the inner quality of life.” This is not, of course, the first time that such concerns have been voiced. There have been other occurrences in America’s history. One arose in the 1830s with a small but influential group of New England thinkers who are known to history as the American Transcendentalists. The views which members of this group expressed regarding the nature of man — and the role of the “body” in helping man achieve his fullest potential — are reflective of many of the concerns which present critics of traditional American values are proclaiming. The nineteenth century New England Transcendentalists wrote a considerable amount which would seem relevant and valuable for those who are interested in learning more about the current debate centering upon the more highly rationalized, overly materialistic, intensely competitive aspects of American sports and the need to seek alternative programs which foster more humanistic, intuitive, natural and less fiercely competitive values in sports and physical education.