AtlasShrugged

A novel by AynRand, first published in 1957.

The theme of AtlasShrugged is the role of the mind in human society.  Rand argues that independent thinking, and the creativity and inventiveness that comes from this, is the motor that runs the world.  In AtlasShrugged she shows what she thinks would happen to the world if the "men of the mind" went on strike: the motor of the world would shut down, and civilization would fall apart.  This is a direct assault on the MarxisT LaborTheoryOfValue, which was popular at the time of writing.

Rand suggests that a society will stagnate to the extent that independence and individual achievement are discouraged or demonized.  Inversely, a society will become more prosperous as it allows, encourages, and rewards independence and individual achievement.  Rand believed that independence flourishes to the extent that people are free, and that achievement is most highly rewarded where people are allowed to keep the product of their efforts.  She advocated LibertarianCapitalism as the political system most consistent with these beliefs.  These considerations make AtlasShrugged a highly political book.

Rand also argues that, since independence and individual achievement drive the world, these things are virtues and should be central to a rational moral code.  She rejects the view that self-sacrifice is a virtue.  These ethical considerations are prominent in AtlasShrugged.

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