This book by the Spanish philosopher comes nearest, perhaps, to his famous The Revolt of the Master in the strength of its structure and the skill with which the author handles themes that have now become of vital importance.

For those who are confused and disturbed by the chaos of the times in which we live, this book has the great value of presenting similar times from which men emerged with a new working serenity. Master of the intriguing idea, skilled in showing the familiar at an unfamiliar angle, Ortega here shows himself far in advance of his time in a book which throws a powerful light on the modern age.