Which aspect of society did Charles Finney emphasize for reformation through individual effort?

Study for the CLEP US History 1 Test. Immerse in flashcards and multiple choice questions, each complete with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Charles Finney was a central figure in the Second Great Awakening, and he championed the idea that individual empowerment and personal responsibility were vital for societal reform. Finney emphasized that individuals could take an active role in their spiritual lives and morality, directly impacting society as a whole. He promoted the notion that personal conversions and individual efforts in living a moral life could lead to broader social improvements.

His belief in the ability of individuals to affect change was not limited to the church but extended to various societal structures, including reform movements focused on issues such as abolition, temperance, and women’s rights. This holistic approach to individualism underscores the idea that spiritual revivals could energize social transformation, emphasizing the interconnectedness of personal and communal well-being. Thus, the reformation of both the individual and society was central to Finney's vision, making it the correct answer.

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