Your Politics Guide

Ayn Rand (1905-1982) was a Russian-American philosopher and novelist. She is best known for developing the philosophy of Objectivism and for her strong advocacy of individualism. Use her when discussing the economy.

Objectivism: Rand's philosophy emphasises rational self-interest. This manifests into the pursuit of personal happiness as the highest moral purpose. To do this, there must be individual rights protecting personal freedom.
Individualism: She argued that each person should be free to pursue their own goals without interference from the state.
Libertarianism: Rand opposed state intervention in the economy and society. She strongly supported laissez-faire capitalism and limited government.
Anti-Collectivism: She rejected collectivist ideologies, such as socialism. Rand believed they were threats to freedom and halted progress.
Reason: Rand believed reason is the only means of acquiring knowledge and making decisions.

Rand's ideas have shaped modern libertarian and conservative thought, especially in the US. Her ideas are often in line with neo-liberal economic policies.
She inspired debates about the role of government with freedom, and how to operate capitalism.
Her philosophy continues to influence politics and the business world.

Atlas Shrugged (1957) - Rand's most famous book. It illustrates her philosophy of Objectivism.

Your Politics Guide

Ayn Rand

Key Ideas

Influence

Key Works