The mass believes that it has the right to impose and to give force of law to notions born in the cafe

The mass believes that it has the right to impose and to give force of law to notions born in the cafe

In his seminal work, "The Revolt of the Masses," Spanish philosopher José Ortega y Gasset explores the concept of the mass man and his impact on society. Ortega y Gasset argues that the mass man, characterized by his lack of individuality and critical thinking, believes that he has the right to impose and give force of law to notions born in the cafe.

The cafe, in this context, represents a space where ideas are discussed and debated among intellectuals and thinkers. It is a place where critical thinking and reflection take place, where individuals engage in dialogue and exchange of ideas. However, Ortega y Gasset argues that the mass man, who lacks the ability for critical thinking and reflection, believes that he has the right to take these ideas and impose them on society as if they were his own.

This phenomenon can be seen in various aspects of society, from politics to culture. The mass man, driven by his desire for conformity and acceptance, adopts ideas and beliefs without questioning their validity or implications. He then seeks to impose these notions on others, often through the use of force or coercion.

Ortega y Gasset warns against the dangers of this mentality, arguing that it leads to the erosion of individuality and freedom. When the mass man imposes his beliefs on society, he stifles dissent and diversity of thought, leading to a homogenized and conformist society.

Furthermore, Ortega y Gasset argues that the mass man's imposition of ideas born in the cafe is a form of intellectual laziness. Instead of engaging in critical thinking and reflection, the mass man simply adopts the ideas of others without understanding or questioning them.