An Introduction to the Politics and Philosophy of José Ortega y Gasset

This book provides a general survey of the life and work of the Spanish philosopher and essayist Ortega y Gasset (1183–1955).

Andrew Dobson (Author)

9780521123310, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 19 November 2009

204 pages
22.9 x 15.2 x 1.2 cm, 0.31 kg

This book provides a general survey of the life and work of the Spanish philosopher and essayist Ortega y Gasset (1183–1955), author of the widely read The Revolt of the Masses. Dr Dobson divides his study into sections devoted to Ortega's political thinking and to his philosophy, rooting these in the context of contemporary Spain and discussing the wider implications of their influence. He examines Ortega's position with regard to the Civil War, his ambivalent espousal of socialism, his emphasis on the importance of the select individual in the modernisation of society and creation of a nació vital; the appropriation of his ideas by Primo de Rivera in the cause of fascism. This book is intended to be accessible to both Hispanists and general readers with an interest in literature, history, intellectual and political thought and philosophy.

Acknowledgements
Introduction
Part I: 1. History, politics and biography
Part II. 2. Socialism and capitalism
3. Liberalism and democracy
4. Conservatism and elitism
5. Nacionalizacón and decentralisation
6. Fascism?
Part III. 7. What is philosophy and why is it done?
8. Idealism, realism and radical reality
9. Perspectifism and truth
10. Razón vital - reason from the point of view of life
Bibliography
Index.

Subject Areas: Social & political philosophy [HPS]