Individualism

The foundation of the ethical theory of Objectivism described and explained by Rand and Branden in this book is the individual. When searching for the "meaning of life" Rand had to look no further than the self. She believes that the survival of the human race demands the survival of individual humans. Therefore, a human must live using her own mind to guide her actions. Such is the principle of individualism. While Rand concedes that humans are social animals and their chances for survival are greater as individuals if they live in a society with other humans, they must still uphold the principle of individualism. According to Objectivism, people can exist employing their own self-interests while simultaneously acknowledging and respecting the rights of others to exist by employing their own self-interests. Individuals can care for others and learn from others while always maintaining individualism and never surrendering their...