Understanding Human Existence Through Historical and Social Context
Human Life: Historical and Social Perspectives
Human life, historical, social
In his “History as a system,” Ortega integrates the vital issue of historical reason. He clarifies that human life is an indubitable reality, a constant process of deciding our next move. However, these choices are influenced by prior convictions. Every individual exists within a framework of beliefs that shape their spiritual repertoire.
These beliefs, unlike ideas, are not what we think but rather the foundation of our lives. They are the deepest layer of our existence, often unnoticed. We are our beliefs, rather than simply having them. These beliefs are hierarchically ordered, and understanding this order allows us to comprehend the ideas and choices made by individuals in their historical circumstances. Ortega seeks to bring these beliefs to light.
One deeply rooted belief of modernity is faith in science. However, in the twentieth century, rationalism and physical-mathematical reason, along with this faith in science, are in crisis. According to Ortega, this crisis stems from the failure of this type of reasoning to explain human nature. He states, “The human escapes the physical-mathematical reason like water through a basket.” Modern science has lost its connection to reality, becoming a purely intellectual exercise with only a pragmatic dimension. This has left humanity without a clear sense of purpose or value.
The historical reason is Ortega’s proposed alternative to overcome the crisis of scientific reason. It allows individuals to relocate themselves and adopt a new perspective, leading to a fuller understanding of their surroundings. This empowers individuals to become the protagonists of their own lives once more.
The historical reason, as advocated by Ortega, stems from the fact that ultimate reality, which he calls “life,” is inherently rooted in the socio-historical context in which individuals are formed. Ortega explains that “man is not nature, but history,” meaning that the nature of things is history for man. Humans lack a predetermined essence; their essence is defined by the uncertainty of their being. We are a collection of possibilities, shaping our existence through our choices. However, these decisions are always framed by the particular historical moment we inhabit. Every individual inherits a past, a series of human experiences, and beliefs that determine their being and possibilities within a specific historical epoch. This historical time must be addressed with a well-defined historical narrative.
Unlike pure, scientific, traditional reason, which treats everything as a cold, objective fact, historical reason acknowledges the context and development of events. It seeks to understand how something has come to be, rather than simply defining what it is. Historical reason is the mode of reasoning that, according to Ortega, best fits the historical and vital character of human existence. It is the path to a better understanding and interpretation of the reality around us. It is the only way, according to Ortega, to “save” the “I” and fulfill the task of engaging with one’s own time.