The Problem with Ayn Rand's Philosopy

I have read (and enjoyed) "Atlas Shrugged" and "The Fountainhead" as well as numerous other materials both about and by Ayn Rand. Two primary flaws in Ayn Rand's Doctrine are

1: Utter disdain for altruism of any sort, and

2: Advocacy for the removal of any regulation on the business sector, even if it is for the purpose of protecting human beings and/or the environment.

Ayn Rand and those who enabled her career to flourish, and who continue to trumpet her doctrine, believe there should be no government.

The critical flaw in this philosophy, which has been readily embraced by rich crooks, is the implication that business, let free to do as it pleases, will do what is in the best interest of human beings, and by extension this logic implies that well, if it doesn't, well then screw human beings.

I would encourage people to read her stuff, (I particularly enjoyed "Atlas Shrugged"), and I would also encourage people to consider what the purpose of government really should be. The phrase "Big Government" was origionally a positive label. It was the organized human response to the excesses of Big Business.


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