Thomas Carlyle's "Signs of the Times"

Thomas Carlyle’s "Signs of the Times" is an essay analyzing the social and cultural shifts of his era. He observes that society is moving away from individual independence and spiritual values towards materialism, mechanization, and uniformity. Carlyle criticizes the rise of industrialization and modern technology, warning they can diminish human creativity and moral strength. Instead, he calls for a renewal of genuine character, moral purpose, and thoughtful leadership to restore purpose and authenticity in life and society. Ultimately, he urges a re-evaluation of values to foster a more meaningful human experience amid rapid change.