Objectivism through Ayn Rand’s Fiction (Part 2)

We the LivingAnthemThe FountainheadAtlas Shrugged—these novels are brimming with new ideas and new perspectives on life. If you have been inspired by Ayn Rand and now want to learn more about her ideas, it’s likely because you have first read one of these novels.

To begin to understand Rand’s distinctive worldview and to learn her new philosophy, Objectivism, there is no better place to start than with the study of these works. Her novels are self-consciously philosophical works, containing abstract themes, characters driven by opposing moral principles, and conflicts rooted in clashing worldviews. Spending time analyzing these, to understand the characters’ inner and outer conflicts and the opposition they face from elements within their society, illuminates Rand’s ideas.

This 8-unit course is the second part of a full 16-unit course. Building on material covered in Part 1, this course addresses topics such as selfishness vs. selflessness, objectivity, moral responsibility, love, and the nature of evil through an analysis of the characters, conflicts, and themes of Rand’s novels.

Prerequisite Readings: We the LivingThe FountainheadAtlas Shrugged and Anthem should be read before beginning this course.

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Course Includes

  • 9 Lessons
  • 24 Topics
  • 9 Writing Assignments
  • Course Faculty

    Onkar Ghate
    Onkar Ghate
    Dr. Ghate is senior fellow, chief philosophy officer, and a board member of the Ayn Rand Institute. He specializes in Rand’s philosophy, Objectivism, and is ARI’s senior instructor and editor. He publishes and lectures on Rand’s philosophy and fiction, including application of Objectivism to cultural issues. He holds a doctorate in philosophy from the University of Calgary.
    Ben Bayer
    Ben Bayer
    Dr. Bayer is a fellow and director of content at the Ayn Rand Institute. He teaches at Ayn Rand University and gives talks and interviews for ARI. He writes and edits for ARI’s online publication, New Ideal. Dr. Bayer holds a PhD in philosophy and his writing focuses primarily on the application of philosophy to contemporary cultural and political controversies.
    Aaron Smith
    Aaron Smith
    Dr. Smith is an instructor and fellow at ARI where he teaches and designs educational content for the Institute’s intellectual training and e-learning programs. He also writes, speaks, and gives interviews for the Institute. Dr. Smith received his PhD in philosophy from Johns Hopkins University where his research focused on Aristotle’s theory of knowledge.