Ramalho Ortigão: The Conservative Voice Liberals Love to Hate

Ramalho Ortigão, a 19th-century Portuguese writer, was a man who knew how to ruffle feathers, especially those of the liberal persuasion. Born in 1836 in Porto, Portugal, Ortigão was a journalist and a cultural critic who didn't shy away from expressing his conservative views. He was a staunch defender of traditional values and a critic of the rapid modernization and liberalization sweeping through Europe at the time. His work, particularly the satirical series "As Farpas," co-authored with Eça de Queirós, was a biting critique of the social and political changes occurring in Portugal. Ortigão's sharp wit and unapologetic stance made him a formidable figure in the cultural landscape of his time.

Ortigão was a master of satire, using his pen as a weapon to challenge the status quo. He believed in the importance of maintaining cultural and moral standards, which he saw as being eroded by the liberal ideologies of his day. His writing was a call to arms for those who valued tradition and were wary of the unchecked progressivism that threatened to upend society. Ortigão's work was not just about preserving the past; it was about ensuring a stable and prosperous future grounded in time-tested principles.

One of the reasons Ortigão's work remains relevant today is his ability to foresee the consequences of abandoning traditional values. He warned against the dangers of moral relativism and the loss of cultural identity, issues that are still hotly debated in contemporary society. Ortigão's insights into human nature and society's tendency to repeat its mistakes make his work a valuable resource for those who seek to understand the complexities of modern life.

Ortigão's critique of liberalism was not just about politics; it was about the very fabric of society. He saw the family unit as the cornerstone of civilization and was deeply concerned about the impact of liberal policies on family structures. Ortigão argued that the erosion of family values would lead to social instability and moral decay. His views on the importance of family resonate with many conservatives today who see the family as the foundation of a healthy society.

Education was another area where Ortigão's conservative views clashed with liberal ideologies. He believed in a classical education that emphasized critical thinking and moral development. Ortigão was critical of educational reforms that prioritized technical skills over the cultivation of character and intellect. He argued that education should be about more than just preparing individuals for the workforce; it should be about shaping responsible and ethical citizens.

Ortigão's disdain for the superficiality of modern culture was evident in his writing. He lamented the rise of materialism and the decline of spiritual and intellectual pursuits. Ortigão believed that a society obsessed with wealth and status was doomed to fail. He championed the idea that true fulfillment comes from a life of purpose and meaning, not from the accumulation of material possessions.

In today's world, where the clash between conservative and liberal values is more pronounced than ever, Ortigão's work serves as a reminder of the importance of standing firm in one's beliefs. His unwavering commitment to traditional values and his fearless critique of liberal ideologies make him a figure worth revisiting. Ortigão's legacy is a testament to the power of the written word to challenge, provoke, and inspire. His work continues to be a source of inspiration for those who believe in the enduring value of tradition and the importance of preserving cultural identity in an ever-changing world.