The concept of “lattitude,” as I define it to mean “Latin attitude,” is a reflection of a cultural and historical narrative that champions collective well-being and and a commitment to life’s pursuits with passion and intensity.

At the heart of lattitude is a community-centric ethos that has historically shaped Hispanic culture, rooted in ancestral indigenous traditions of the Americas and their amalgamation with the culture of the conquistadores. As I see it, there is a venerable tradition in Eurocultures consistent with Plato’s proposition in “Phaedrus” that through philosophical inquiry, self-mastery, and the proper cultivation of the soul, one can attain a fulfilling and virtuous life; this, however this is individualistic. Lattitude adds one layer: Do it all with maximal effort and devotion, driven by the well being of the community. Disney’s Encanto captures some of this magic.

Lattitude is woven into Hispanic life, which is now becoming an increasingly dominant part of US culture. It manifests itself through relentless work ethics, cultural celebrations, family and community bonds. Festivities like Día de los Muertos or Fiesta are not mere celebrations, but embody deep cultural rituals driven by this unique blend of community, passion and compassion.

In the broader socio-political landscape, lattitude carries significant implications. It underscores the collective over individual interests. This orientation has shaped policies, governance, and social dynamics in Latin American countries. Since one third of the US will be Hispanic by the end of this century (with one third white, and one native & African American & Asian), lattitude will shape the future of the US.

So, (i) with so much lattitude going around in Latin America, why are things so broken? and (ii) will the future bring trouble to the US given the increase of the Hispanic heritage? In short, (i) it’s complicated and (ii) no. I have a thesis and a mathematical model, but that is the subject of another post.