Concept in Definition ABC
Miscellanea / / July 04, 2021
By Javier Navarro, in May. 2017
This stream of the philosophy emerged in the twentieth century and Ayn Rand is its highest representative. His ideas were not presented in the traditional language of philosophy, but were exposed through his novels, such as "El Manantial" or "The Atlas Rebellion".
The central thesis of objectivism is the following: reality exists as something objective and human reason is the means to perceive it.
Main postulates of objectivism
The human being needs a moral rational. This implies that the moral codes that allow us to distinguish good from bad should not be based on emotions subjective or religious beliefs founded on faith. In this sense, our beliefs and convictions have to be based on rational and logical criteria. Through logic it is possible to show that something is true and correct from the point of view of morality.
The morality of objectivism starts from a general principle: human life is the supreme value that gives meaning to existence. The moral objective of any individual is to achieve his own happiness and to achieve this, no one should impose his ideas on others. In other words, each human being must guide his life as an end in himself and guide his existence from his rational interest.
Objectivism gives priority to the individual over the collective. In this sense, Ayn Rand's philosophical vision is a harsh criticism of any form of socialism.
Objectivism is opposed to the existence of God, as there is no proof or evidence to prove its existence
From an economic point of view, the capitalism as the only system production valid, since it is the model that guarantees the right of human beings to fight for their dreams and aspirations.
Criticism of Objectivism
Like all philosophical currents, Objectivism has been the subject of some criticism. In the first place, it is considered a doctrine that advocates selfishness, because according to its postulates the human being has to sacrifice for himself and not for others.
On the other hand, the ideas of Ayn Rand and her followers have been valued as a critique of the Jewish and Christian tradition. Finally, some consider that this current legitimizes the abuses of capitalism, since Ayn Rand was in favor of the no intervention of the state in economic affairs.
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Topics in Objectivism