Ayn Rand

Question 1

Which type of conservative was Ayn Rand?

Answer 1

Ayn Rand was a new right conservative

Question 2

What were Ayn Rand’s beliefs on human nature?

Answer 2

Ayn Rand argued that humans are guided by rational self-interest and the pursuit of self-fulfilment
(thus the state should confine itself to law, order and security to allow individuals to flourish as they can make their own rational decisions)

Question 3

What were Ayn Rand’s beliefs on the state?

Answer 3

Ayn Rand believed that the state should confine itself to law, order and security. Any attempt to promote positive liberty through state intervention should be challenged
(allowing human nature to flourish since individuals are guided by rational self-interest and the pursuit of self-fulfilment)

Question 4

What were Ayn Rand’s beliefs on society?

Answer 4

Rand argued that society is atomistic, it is the mere sum of its individuals. Any attempt to restrict individuals in the name of society should be challenged
(allowing human nature to flourish since individuals are guided by rational self-interest and the pursuit of self-fulfilment)

Question 5

What were Ayn Rand’s beliefs on the economy?

Answer 5

Rand argued that free-market capitalism is an expression of ‘objectivist’ individualism and should not be hindered by the state
(allowing human nature to flourish in the economic realm since individuals are guided by rational self-interest and the pursuit of self-fulfilment)