José Ortega y Gasset: Philosophy, Legacy, and Spanish Context

The Impact and Legacy of Ortega y Gasset's Philosophy

José Ortega y Gasset is considered one of the most important figures in Spanish philosophy. Although his thinking did not always receive an enthusiastic reception in Spain, Ortega consistently refused to separate his professional and intellectual activity from the circumstances lived in Spain.

Ortega's Public and Academic Life

Alongside his academic pursuits, Ortega sought an extension of philosophy, bringing his approach to the public sphere. A key achievement was the founding of the Revista de Occidente, which began as an editorial project.

Disciples and Exile

Ortega successfully formed a number of disciples, including Julián Marías, José Gaos, Francisco Ayala, Manuel Granell, and María Zambrano. Many of these thinkers were forced into exile in the Americas following the Spanish Civil War.

During the Civil War, Ortega remained silent, drawing criticism from both sides. Only his disciples continued to propagate his thought. After his death, Ortega's metaphysical thought was sometimes considered outdated in Spain.

International Reception and Current Inheritance

Ortega's work was better received abroad, particularly in Germany and France, where his disciples spread his ideas through universities and publications.

Ortega's current inheritance lies in his contribution to the debate on the crisis of modern life and his concept of reason, which serves as a critique of European rationalism. He is also the creator of much of the philosophical terminology that has enriched Spanish thought and helped raise awareness of contemporary philosophical thinking (pensamiento).

Historical Context of Ortega y Gasset's Life (1883–1955)

José Ortega y Gasset was born in Madrid in 1883, during the reign of Alfonso XII.

Spain's Early 20th Century Context

• 1898: Spain lost its remaining colonies, leading to deep national pessimism. This context fueled Ortega's desire to replace old policies with new ones.
• 1904: The Law of Sabbath was promulgated.
• 1908: The right to strike was regulated.
• 1919: The 8-hour workday was established.

Academic Career and Political Engagement

Ortega transcended academic life when he secured the Chair of Metaphysics at the University of Madrid. He combined this role with publishing numerous newspaper articles and engaging in cultural and political activities.

Ortega confronted the dictatorship of Primo de Rivera. Following the dictator's intervention in the University, Ortega resigned in 1929. He delivered his final five lessons in extracurricular settings. This move, bringing philosophy outside the traditional classroom, caused a significant social impact and helped generate public interest in philosophical thought.

The Republic and Exile

Ortega later regained his chair. He wrote The Berenguer Error and, alongside other intellectuals, founded the Association to Serve the Republic.

With the outbreak of the Civil War, he was eventually exiled, residing primarily in Portugal. Thereafter, his public impact stemmed mainly from delivering lectures. He later founded the Institute of Humanities.