Galt's Gulch

Objectivism In India

Posted by khalling 9 years, 9 months ago to Philosophy
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From The Atlas Summit. This young, dynamic speaker shares many interesting insights on Indians accept Objectivist principles perhaps easier than other western countries outside the US. Very encouraging and interesting.
SOURCE URL: http://www.atlassociety.org/as/objectivism-and-india

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  • Posted by MikeRael101 9 years, 9 months ago
    While Mr. Johnson had a fun presentation, it shows how little he understands Objectivism and, contrariwise, it makes one wonder what the Atlas Society is about!
    The first idea of "Objectivism" comes from the word "objective." If reality exists outside of our fears and wishes, that means no Gods! But Indians believe that Gods exist to grant us help of different kinds. That is, of course, totally opposed to Objectivism.
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    • Posted by dbhalling 9 years, 9 months ago
      Mike, I share some of your concerns, which I think include confusing or conflating Objectivism with Hinduism and glossing over their differences. The main point of the talk was why Rand is selling well in India. The second point of the talk was to show the similarities to certain Hindu gods and myths. In that sense I think the talk was very good. Note I am no expert on Hinduism.

      I think this is a potentially dangerous area, despite this I think Objectivism could gain some inroads by showing how it is similar to (not the same) as Locke, the Declaration of Independence, Natural Rights, the Founders, Locke and Bacon on epistemology, etc. Perhaps correctly done, the same can be said for India and their history. I think it is important to explain the clear differences. For instance, Adam Smith's whole premise is nationalist, not individualistic. Smith's ethics is altruistic and he can be seen as an apologist for individualism at best. This is even more true of Hayek.
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  • Posted by straightlinelogic 9 years, 9 months ago
    I'm bullish on India and own stock (ADRs) of some Indian companies. They recently elected a Prime Minister committed to reform of the government and more market oriented policies. They have some world class companies, a culture that places a high value on education, an Anglo-American legal system, and a billion people who want to make better lives for themselves. They've always had potential, but I think that potential may be on the verge of being realized. Objectivism should find an audience there among the more dynamic, entrepreneurial people.
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