What did Puritans belief in human beings and sin?

Puritans held a fundamentally pessimistic view of human nature, believing that all humans were inherently sinful due to the doctrine of original sin. They emphasized the idea that individuals were depraved and unable to achieve salvation through their own efforts, relying instead on God's grace. This belief shaped their strict moral code and community standards, as they sought to live in a way that reflected their commitment to purity and righteousness in the eyes of God. Consequently, Puritan society was marked by a strong emphasis on self-discipline, piety, and a communal responsibility to uphold moral standards.