Mario Rodríguez Cobos, Argentinian philosopher and author (d. 2010)

Mario Luis Rodríguez Cobos, globally recognized by his mononym Silo (born January 6, 1938, died September 16, 2010), was a prominent Argentine writer, thinker, and the visionary founder of the Humanist Movement. This influential global current, also widely known as New Humanism or Universalist Humanism, is deeply rooted in his original thought and teachings, advocating for a profound transformation of both individuals and society.

Silo’s public life and the formal genesis of the Humanist Movement trace back to a pivotal address he delivered on May 4, 1969, at Punta de Vacas, a significant mountain location in the Andes near Mendoza, Argentina. This discourse, often referred to as "The Healing of Suffering," is considered the foundational act of the Humanist Movement, laying down its initial philosophical and methodological framework. From these origins, the movement expanded rapidly, establishing a global presence through various organizations and initiatives dedicated to promoting peace, active non-violence, and social justice worldwide.

Silo's Expansive Body of Work and Core Themes

An exceptionally active speaker and a prolific author, Silo dedicated his life to articulating a comprehensive vision for human liberation and a more humane world. His extensive bibliography encompasses numerous books, insightful short stories, analytical articles, and detailed studies. These works delve into a remarkably diverse range of subjects, reflecting his holistic approach to understanding human existence and societal challenges. Key areas of his intellectual exploration include:

• Politics and Society: Silo critically examined prevailing power structures and proposed pathways for a more equitable, non-discriminatory, and truly democratic social order, advocating for human rights and social justice.
• Psychology: His writings delved into the intricacies of human consciousness, the origins of suffering, and the profound potential for personal and collective transformation, emphasizing the importance of internal experience.
• Spirituality: Silo offered a unique, non-dogmatic perspective on the human search for meaning, purpose, and the transcendence of everyday difficulties. Seminal works like The Inner Look guide readers through contemplative exercises aimed at fostering inner peace and a deeper connection with oneself and others.
• Other Topics: Beyond these core areas, his intellectual contributions also encompassed philosophy, history, and the development of a practical methodology for personal growth and collective action, providing tools for active engagement in the world.

Philosopher or Writer? Silo's Enduring Legacy

Despite the immense breadth and profound depth of his intellectual contributions, Silo consistently described himself simply as a writer. However, the philosophical coherence, universality, and transformative impact of his work have led countless individuals, scholars, and observers worldwide to recognize him as a significant thinker and a profound philosopher. This widespread perception stems from:

• His original conceptualization of human beings, their inherent freedom, and their potential for development, often referred to as "Silo's thought" or "Siloism."
• His unwavering emphasis on an active methodology for internal change as a prerequisite for external social transformation, advocating for overcoming all forms of violence, discrimination, and suffering.
• The systematic nature of his ideas, which provide a comprehensive and practical framework for understanding the human condition and actively building a more humane, non-violent, and meaningful future.

Silo’s enduring legacy extends far beyond his written words. He fostered a global community committed to the principles of Universalist Humanism, promoting reconciliation, active non-violence, and the profound belief in the capacity for all human beings to evolve and create a better world. His influence continues to resonate through the Humanist Movement and its various expressions, inspiring new generations to pursue a world free from violence and full of meaning and purpose.

Frequently Asked Questions about Silo and the Humanist Movement

Who was Silo?

Silo, born Mario Luis Rodríguez Cobos, was an influential Argentine writer, thinker, and the visionary founder of the Humanist Movement. He is widely recognized for his extensive writings on diverse subjects including politics, society, psychology, and spirituality, all aimed at promoting non-violence, social change, and human evolution.

What is the Humanist Movement?

The Humanist Movement, also known as New Humanism or Universalist Humanism, is a global social and cultural current initiated by Silo. It advocates for a human-centered approach to personal and societal development, emphasizing active non-violence, reconciliation, the rejection of all forms of discrimination, and the belief in humanity's capacity to overcome suffering and build a truly humane world.

Where and when was the Humanist Movement formally established?

The Humanist Movement was formally launched by Silo with a public discourse delivered on May 4, 1969, at Punta de Vacas, a mountain location in the Andes near Mendoza, Argentina. This event is considered the foundational act of the movement's public expression.

What are some of Silo's key philosophical contributions?

Silo's key philosophical contributions include the concept of active non-violence as a methodology for personal and social change, the importance of internal transformation to address external challenges, and a unique spiritual perspective that emphasizes the search for meaning beyond material existence. His work provides a comprehensive framework for understanding and resolving human suffering, advocating for a world free from violence and discrimination.