The theme of Atlas Shrugged (and The Fountainhead)
Posted by jmlesniewski 11 years, 2 months ago to Books
Atlas Shrugged:
"Its theme is: the role of the mind in man’s existence—and, as corollary, the demonstration of a new moral philosophy: the morality of rational self-interest."
The Fountainhead:
"Its theme is: individualism versus collectivism, not in politics, but in man’s soul; the psychological motivations and the basic premises that produce the character of an individualist or a collectivist."
BONUS
Anthem
"Its theme is: the meaning of man’s ego."
We The Living
"Its theme is: the individual against the state; the supreme value of a human life and the evil of the totalitarian state that claims the right to sacrifice it."
"Its theme is: the role of the mind in man’s existence—and, as corollary, the demonstration of a new moral philosophy: the morality of rational self-interest."
The Fountainhead:
"Its theme is: individualism versus collectivism, not in politics, but in man’s soul; the psychological motivations and the basic premises that produce the character of an individualist or a collectivist."
BONUS
Anthem
"Its theme is: the meaning of man’s ego."
We The Living
"Its theme is: the individual against the state; the supreme value of a human life and the evil of the totalitarian state that claims the right to sacrifice it."
Moreover, Rand was never primarily a political writer. Her writing is about man as a heroic being, about living "selfishly."
"The number of incorrect statements I've read here about Atlas Shrugged's theme is outstanding"
point them out when you see them, and let's spend some time on them. but making blanket statements with no frame of reference is condescending. I have no doubt you are very learned in philosophy; engage us in discussion then.