Understanding Key Philosophical Concepts
Universe
The universe encompasses all existing things. While often used interchangeably with “world,” “universe” refers to the totality of existence, whereas “world” can pertain to individual perspectives. Multiple “worlds” may exist based on personal interpretations, but there is only one universe.
Utopia
Derived from the Greek (ou-topos), meaning “no place,” Utopia describes a perfect, yet non-existent society. Thomas More coined the term to represent an ideal society, often the antithesis of contemporary reality. It serves a dual purpose: a negative critique of existing societal flaws and a positive, guiding vision. Utopia represents our highest aspirations, albeit deemed unattainable.
Utopian
A utopian is an individual who designs or is drawn to utopias.
Truth
Ortega challenges the traditional definition of truth as mere correspondence between thought and reality. Reality isn’t independent of human perception. It initially confronts us, requiring us to assign meaning. Things don’t possess inherent being independent of human interaction. This being emerges when humans confront them and develop behavioral programs, determining what to do and expect. Ortega terms this “stance.” The way we stand by reality defines its essence. Truth, therefore, is what allows us to know what to expect, clarified through our beliefs. Ortega states, “Truth is the coincidence of the man himself” (Around Galileo, L. VII).
Life, Vitality
Life, in its broadest sense, is the internal principle providing strength, energy, or movement. It can be understood biologically, morally, or metaphysically. Ortega focuses on the metaphysical aspect.
Vitalism
Ortega views vitalism in two ways: as a biological theory and a philosophical doctrine. Biologically, it asserts that organic phenomena are irreducible to physico-chemical principles. Philosophically, it has three interpretations:
- a) A theory of knowledge where knowledge is a biological process governed by adaptation, least effort, and economy.
- b) A philosophy prioritizing reason but acknowledging a more immediate cognitive relation, termed “intuition” by Bergson.
- c) A philosophy that, while accepting rational knowledge, places the problem of life at the center of the ideological system. (Neither Vitalism nor Rationalism).
Ortega identifies the second meaning as the most precise, though his own defense of vitalism aligns with the third.
Pure I
The Pure I refers to an abstract self, separate and independent from the real and historical circumstances of an individual. It is a universal self, contrasting with the concrete, diverse self of each person, which varies with circumstance. The Pure I is unchanging, always identical to itself.