Ayn Rand

[asterroc]

I haven't ever read Ayn Rand, and I have no intention of doing so. However, I am told that the author of the series I am currently reading, Terry Goodkind, is heavily influenced by her works, and her concepts of "objectivism" and "enlightened self interest." Anyone care to explain these concepts to me in shorter form?

Comments

[gemini6ice.livejournal.com]

afaiu, "egoism" is the ADMISSION of selfishness and the acceptance that your own needs come first. It's also the belief that everyone really is completely selfish and just does not admit it. I am in this camp. Everything you do is for yourself: your actions are based on what you believe, in the moment, will bring the greatest degree happiness/satisfaction/contentment. Doing something for others can (and often does) give you a feeling of pride or self-appreciation, even if you do not flaunt it. If you give a dollar to a homeless man, it's not because you want him to have a dollar, it's because his having a dollar gives you happiness. It's a subtle distinction.

[gemini6ice.livejournal.com]

objectivism is an encompassing philosophy that embraces egoism and concludes that rational indulgence will lead to the greatest happiness. A society that protects individual freedoms and rights will lead to the greatest happiness for everyone.