Objectivism Ayn Rand, Philosopher During

Objectivism

Ayn Rand, philosopher during the beginning of the 20th century, can be said to have pioneered the concept of objectivism. She explicates this ideal in many of her works, and particularly in the work of fiction, The Fountainhead. The book follows the life of Howard Roark, and how his expulsion from Architectural School placed him on a road not only of self-discovery, but also of self-realization.

The expulsion is based upon Roark's inability to see the value of adhering to tradition in favor of innovative thought. He argues for ownership and innovation in his conversation with the Dean. The Dean of the Architectural School, as well as all his colleagues and most students at the school, believe that the traditional is sacred. In this particular conversation, the Dean upholds the Parthenon as the ultimate in traditional and therefore perfect design. Roark on the other hand focuses his attention upon both utility and innovation when making his argument:

"Every form has its own meaning. Every man creates his meaning and form and goal. Why is it so important -- what others have done? Why does it become sacred by the mere fact of not being your own? Why is anyone and everyone right -- so long as it's not yourself?" (Rand 13)

Roark is not attempting to be either disruptive or disrespectful, but appears to honestly wish to understand the issue of traditionalism and its value for modern architecture. This honesty is however indeed mistaken for insubordination leading to his expulsion. It then clearly follows that both Roark and his superiors at the school are unable to understand each other's paradigms. Roark is the representative of objectivism in the book -- he promotes ownership and innovation. The school officials promote the value of the past over everything that any modern person can imagine. For them, "all the proper forms of expression have been discovered long ago." (Rand 13). There is therefore no possibility of original thought, innovation, or indeed ownership, among the generation that exists. This belief then also leads to all new forms of expression being demonized as inferior, often shocking, and at all times unworthy of serious academic or professional attention. It is this attitude that places Roark upon the road of discover that leads to himself and his inner drive to create beauty.

From Rand's book, it becomes clear that she is presenting her philosophy of objectivism. It is a philosophy that promotes the spirit of individualism rather than the collective; and of the pursued of happiness for the individual in question. According to William Thomas, however, this is not an isolated type of individualism. It is acutely aware of the other human beings among whom the individual functions. As such, it is aware of the necessity of achieving individual happiness while keeping in mind the rights of others. In the act of building businesses, inventing technologies, and creating art (Thomas), individuals who subscribe to objectivism do so with an awareness of the community and its needs.

When applied to the world we know today, the spirit of entrepreneurship can be seen as a manifestation of Rand's objectivism. One example is the increased awareness of the social responsibility concept. Most businesses today are involved in community and environmental projects as part of their marketing campaigns, as well as an awareness of the necessity of such projects. It is also not uncommon to hear about the rich and famous contributing to philanthropic causes that they care about.