The Problem of Race and Recognition in the Formation of Latin American Identity

The basis for this chapter is an analysis of the essays Ariel by José Enrique Rodó and The cosmic race by José Vasconcelos in the context of the notion of race. The aim of the chapter is to show how the problem of race in presented cases becomes an instrument for the authors to seek recognition in the dimension which Honneth called solidarity. This analysis presents how the discussed interpretations of the problem of race can be read as a search for the opposition to the dominant consensus, which concerns the values regulating the recognition of cultural models, and as an attempt to recognise cultural distinctiveness. Both of the presented strategies have essentially the same aim – to get the community out of a peripheral position and create a horizon within which members of the community could expect an increase in the respect shown to them.