Ortega y Gasset: Philosophical Influences and Legacy

Ortega y Gasset himself repeatedly acknowledged the influences of Unamuno, especially regarding the cultural attitude needed to regenerate Spain, though they crossed swords in their feelings towards Europe and science.

Ortega was influenced by Nietzsche's vitalism and perspectivism, manifested in his defense of vital values, feelings, imagination, and the less rational dimensions of the person. However, while Nietzsche's vitalism could be seen as radical, Ortega did not understand life without its interconnection with reason.

Ortega found certain parallels in Husserl's phenomenology, such as intentionality in mental processes and the demand for philosophy to find a ground—a reality which is consciousness for Husserl and, for Ortega, life itself.

Similarities with existentialism can be found between Ortega's categories of life and Heidegger's existential analysis. The idea that man has no essence and is thrown into existence is also found in Sartre's existentialism. However, Ortega differs from Sartre's view where human existence can seem nonsensical; for Ortega, it has a history and a project to be undertaken.

Ortega also received influences from Dilthey, which manifest, alongside other scientific and social doctrines, in Ortega's concepts of vital reason and historical reason, particularly encapsulated when Ortega states, "Man has no nature, but history."

Influence and Legacy

Ortega influenced German authors due to his relationship with Germany. However, given that Ortega is considered by many to be the most important Spanish philosopher, his influence has been particularly remarkable among Spanish-language authors and within Spanish society itself. Through the Revista de Occidente, which he founded and directed, he introduced readers to key developments in European philosophy and social sciences. Furthermore, his influence was amplified and extended by his circle of followers, including:

• Julián Marías
• Xavier Zubiri
• María Zambrano
• Manuel García Morente
• José Luis Aranguren
• Pedro Laín Entralgo
• Luis Abad Carretero