The state – in interpretation of Jose Ortega Y Gasset

Abstract

The manuscript explores the historical conditionality of the state – its essence and primary features in the doctrine of J. Ortega y Gasset. In his interpretation, the state is a metaphysical phenomenon, an imaginary potency that requires the creation of a new sociopolitical reality. This idea is embodied due to the regulatory violence, consensus between the lifestyle of a mature nation, its freedom and the creative inspiration of the elite. The state is an integrating force that constrains the hierarchical order of values and balances spiritual movements with material stability. In turn, a nation-state is a metaphysical tension and unity of the past and the future, the tradition and a new consolidating idea, a fusion of democratic institutions and the subconscious calling of blood, earth, and a language of a mature nation. The democratic nature of the nation-state is its obligatory advantage – it provides an individual with ground and values to harmoniously withstand collective oppression. The nation-state is not possible without a high level of social elasticity, without a tight consolidation of elites with social strata, without democratic principles of cooperation.