Consider the feasibility of Thoreau's notions about individualism and self reliance in terms of modern life. Would he simply be considered weird? Is there anyone who even attempts to embody his philosophy??

There is still a romanticism about Thoreau's ideas. The whole idea of quitting the "rat race" and getting back to basics, back to the land, has never gone away. Whether its communion with nature or rugged individuality guys like Thoreau and Waldo Emerson still stir our modern imaginations. Now, not everyone is going to build a cabin in the woods and drop out of society. Many people simply take steps to simplify their hectic life.