Ayn Rand and Today's Politics

After reading The Fountainhead and discussing author Ayn Rand at great lengths I decided to read further into Ayn Rand. Ayn Rand’s ability to surprise me continue to shock me. Her relevance today is still present not only in economics but politics as well. Political leaders like Ted Cruz and Paul Ryan have expressed their support of her ideals. The Washington Post recently posted an article about how Donald Trump is a huge Rand supporter and how his opinions and choices expresses Rand’s philosophy. 

The intriguing idea though is experts in Rand’s philosophy hold the view that Rand would reject Trump, and most politicians today. According to Onkar Ghate, a reported Rand export states Rand would view Trump as part of the anti-intellectual movement. Rand valued integrity and independence of judgement above all, and Trump is constantly caught up in different lies. Not only is Trump not known for his integrity, but most politicians in today’s political stage are not known for their value of integrity. Furthermore, while Rand may not be viewed as the most devote feminist, she was a huge advocate of pro-choice for women. 


After reading these articles I realized that Rand’s philosophy is unique, and while all the premises may not be justifiable, her ideas cannot align with anyone party. Rand’s contradicting ideas makes it impossible for her philosophy to be used to justify actions or regulations. However, certain ideas Rand writes are worthy, like the ideas of individualism over collectivism. Rand does not give this option to only adopt some of her ideals through her all or nothing philosophy. Rand only recognizes the extremes in society and refutes any notion of compromise or middle ground. 


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