The Revolt of the Masses (book)

"The Revolt of the Masses" by José Ortega y Gasset analyzes the rise of the "mass man"—average individuals who challenge traditional elites and cultural standards. Ortega argues that this shift towards democratization has led to a decline in excellence and a loss of cultural and spiritual values, as masses prioritize comfort and instant gratification over merit. The book explores how this societal change affects modern Western civilization, emphasizing the tension between individual greatness and the conformity driven by mass society, ultimately warning about potential consequences for cultural progress and social order.