Objectivism: Ayn Rand's Philosophy for Living on Earth

Ayn Rand's philosophy for living on Earth - Objectivism - upholds objective reality, reason, rational self-interest, and laissez-faire capitalism. It places the individual as hero and his own happiness as sacred. Source: Ayn Rand Institute YouTube channel. Find out more at http://www.aynrand.org/

(see video at the bottom of transcript)

Transcript:

Objectivism – it's a guide to living here (Earth). Developed by this writer (Ayn Rand). Wondering who needs a philosophy? She answered that. To deal with real life, we need a view of the world and a place in it.

Now, some people have strong opinions on objectivism. “Not only immoral but evil.” - Gore Vidal. “An excellent piece of work.” - H. L. Mencken. “Incredibly motivating to me.” - Mark Cuban. “You reevaluate your own life.” - Angelina Jolie.

It's a philosophy that's controversial because it advocates selfishness and says: altruism is evil. But, we'll get back to that. Rand's philosophy looks something like this: reality, reason, self-interest, capitalism. It starts with the idea that reality is objective. Universe is what it is, not what we want it to be. And wishing otherwise won't make it so. Next, it states that our reason is all we have and all we need for understanding the world around us. And if reason is an absolute, we can't accept contradictions. It also says: your highest moral purpose should be to pursuit of your own selfish happiness. Now, selfishness can be misinterpreted. It doesn't mean exploit others for your own gain. It means realize your highest potential by pursuing rational ends. And live in harmony with others by respecting their right to their own life and happiness. The result of this philosophy is a life of reason, purpose, self-esteem. A philosophy for living on earth.

Ayn Rand: “If you know that this life is all that you have, wouldn't you make the most of it?”

Learn more at AynRand.org

Translated by: Jadranko Brkic