Ayn Rand (1905-1982)

Question 1

Rand - Human Nature

Answer 1

Ayn Rand had a fundamentally optimistic view of human nature, rooted in rational self-interest. She believed that humans are capable of reason and should pursue their own happiness as their highest moral aim. Rand’s philosophy, objectivism, emphasises individualism and the pursuit of personal goals. She argued that each person should act according to their rational self-interest and that this would lead to a prosperous and free society.

Question 2

Rand - Society

Answer 2

Rand envisioned a society where individuals freely interact and cooperate based on mutual benefit and voluntary exchange. She argued against collectivism and any form of enforced altruism, believing that these undermine individual freedom and creativity. In her ideal society, relationships are formed through consent and respect for individual rights.

Question 3

Rand - The State

Answer 3

Ayn Rand advocated for a minimal state, whose sole purpose is to protect individual rights, particularly life, liberty, and property. She believed that government intervention should be limited to functions such as the police, military, and the courts, which protect citizens from physical force and fraud. Rand was a staunch opponent of any form of state intervention in personal and economic affairs beyond these fundamental roles.

Question 4

Rand - The Economy

Answer 4

Rand championed laissez-faire capitalism as the only moral economic system. She argued that free markets, characterised by voluntary exchange and competition, are the best means of ensuring individual freedom and prosperity. Rand was critical of government regulation and welfare programs, seeing them as infringements on individual rights and barriers to economic growth and innovation. Her economic philosophy is grounded in the belief that individuals should be free to pursue their own economic interests without state interference.