This book will introduce the reader to the main works of the American philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson. It contains reflections on how to become a strong and independent person ("Self-confidence"), on worldly wisdom ("Prudence"), as well as on the highest human qualities.: heroism, love and friendship. Emerson believed that true morality cannot be built on the instructions or prohibitions of others. It is born from within, when a person trusts his intuition and feels connected to something greater than himself. The philosopher sharply criticized society for putting pressure on people and forcing them to be "like everyone else", and also argued with those who saw in man only a passive mechanism. Surprisingly, these thoughts are relevant to this day.