What was significant about the religious philosophy during the Second Great Awakening?

The significance of the religious philosophy during the Second Great Awakening lies in its emphasis on the idea that salvation could be achieved through good deeds and personal connection to God. This movement, which peaked in the early 19th century, marked a shift away from the more rigid Calvinistic doctrines prevalent in the early American Puritan tradition, such as strict predestination. Instead, the Second Great Awakening promoted the idea that individuals had the ability to choose their own path to salvation, emphasizing moral responsibility, personal piety, and social reform.

The movement led to a surge in religious enthusiasm and revivalism, encouraging many to engage in charitable works and social justice causes. This focus inspired various reforms, including the abolition of slavery and the temperance movement, as adherents believed that their actions could contribute to their salvation and positively influence society. Consequently, this philosophy democratized religion, fostering a sense of agency among believers and moving away from a worldview where one's fate was predetermined.