Philosophical and political ideas in Rafael María Baralt

Abstract

The text highlights the incomplete critical narrative of philosophical ideas in Latin America despite abundant literature. Existing documents often focus on “classic” content or provide overviews of recognized intellectuals’ lives, lacking exploration of new approaches. Investigating post-independence thought requires expanding ideological frameworks and revealing diverse efforts to address challenges in the turbulent regional context. The text focuses on Venezuelan thinker Baralt, justifying his inclusion in the study. The qualitative methodology, particularly the hermeneutic method, interprets texts in context. The essay analyzes Baralt’s philosophical and political ideas, concluding that they reflect a critical era embracing democratic ideals within the Western tradition, interweaving Christian, liberal, and socialist values for a future focused on equality and social justice