José Enrique Rodó

José Enrique Rodó was a Uruguayan essayist, philosopher, and literary figure born in 1871. He is best known for his influential essay "Ariel," where he argued for the importance of spiritual and cultural values over materialism and superficial progress. Rodó emphasized the need to nurture intellectual and moral development, advocating for Latin American identity rooted in European humanist ideals. His ideas inspired discussions on cultural identity, ethics, and education, shaping Latin American thought in the early 20th century. Rodó's work remains significant for its focus on cultural integrity and moral principles in the pursuit of social progress.