José Ortega y Gasset's philosophy is rooted in the belief that our understanding of life is shaped by our personal experiences and the contexts in which we exist. He famously stated, “I am I and my circumstances,” emphasizing the dynamic relationship between individuals and their environments. Drawing from various thinkers, including John Stuart Mill and Immanuel Kant, Ortega argued that philosophy should challenge our preconceived notions to unveil deeper truths about reality.

Ortega acknowledged the contributions of science but also recognized its limitations, particularly in understanding human existence. Inspired by Albert Einstein's theory of relativity, he posited that reality can be perceived in numerous ways depending on one's perspective. He believed that each person's viewpoint is essential to understanding the broader tapestry of existence.

In Ortega's view, human life is a continuous dialogue between the self and the surrounding world. Each individual's perspective is a vital piece of reality, and knowledge is inherently tied to one's situational context. He argued that every truth is linked to an individual's unique position in time and space. Life is a quest for meaning and action, where individuals navigate a complex web of circumstances.

Ortega poetically described life as a shipwreck in a sea of circumstances, highlighting the struggle to maintain consciousness amid the chaos. He asserted that humans are not merely products of their environment; they possess the agency to shape their actions within their circumstances. His philosophy celebrates the vibrancy of human experience, rejecting mechanistic interpretations of existence.

Addressing the nature of time, Ortega introduced the concept of "historical time," which reflects how humans perceive events through narrative and personal motives. Unlike the immutable laws of physics, human history is characterized by unique actions and choices. Our past experiences shape our identities and influence our decisions, making history a fundamental aspect of selfhood.

Ortega viewed individuals as free agents capable of making choices, emphasizing that while circumstances are shaped by history, they do not dictate our actions. He believed that we must confront the myriad possibilities available to us and act upon them. Similar to Kierkegaard, Ortega asserted that living entails making choices, continually engaging with the world around us.

In the social context, Ortega recognized that individuals exist within a collective human experience. He asserted that our identities are defined not only by our personal thoughts but also by our interactions with others. Society, therefore, is a dynamic interplay of unique individuals navigating shared possibilities.

Ortega criticized both capitalism and Marxism, advocating for a socio-political structure that safeguards individual rights and freedoms. He was particularly concerned about the potential tyranny of the majority, as articulated in his work, The Revolt of the Masses. He delineated a division within society based not on economic status but on the mindset of individuals—those striving for self-improvement versus those content with mediocrity.

In his critique, Ortega expressed concerns about the rise of mass culture, which he believed fostered ignorance and complacency. He warned of the dangers posed by the mass-man, who, in their quest for superiority, often overlooks the value of history and individuality. His reflections resonate with the thoughts of Rousseau and Nietzsche, who similarly cautioned against the erosion of excellence and individuality in the face of mass movements.

Ortega's insights foreshadowed the emergence of totalitarian regimes, as he argued that when the masses equate themselves with the state, individual freedoms become jeopardized. He foresaw a future where society, in its quest for uniformity, would suppress individuality in favor of mediocrity—a prediction that would later align with the rise of fascism in Europe.