What philosophical movement, founded by Ralph Waldo Emerson, emphasized that truth transcends the senses?

Transcendentalism is the philosophical movement that emphasizes the idea that truth goes beyond human sensory experience. Founded by Ralph Waldo Emerson in the early 19th century, this movement posits that individuals can gain a deeper understanding of reality through intuition and direct spiritual experience rather than relying solely on empirical evidence or the scientific method.

Transcendentalists advocate for the inherent goodness of people and nature, promoting self-reliance and individuality. They believe that there is a higher spiritual reality that can be comprehended through personal reflection and connection with nature, which shapes their perspective on truth and existence. Key figures in this movement, apart from Emerson, include Henry David Thoreau and Margaret Fuller, who also contributed significantly to its ideals.

In contrast, the other movements listed have different focuses: Realism emphasizes a more factual and straightforward representation of life and its experiences; Romanticism places a premium on emotion and individual experience while often drawing inspiration from nature and the past; Modernism, emerging later, reflects a break with traditional forms and conventions, often questioning the notion of absolute truths. These distinctions highlight why Transcendentalism is the correct answer in this context.