Objectivism in One Lesson: An Introduction to the Philosophy of Ayn Rand

by Andrew Bernstein

Overview

For the millions of readers who love Ayn Rand's novels and who seek to understand her revolutionary philosophy of Objectivism, there has not been available a simple and concise introduction to her thought. Objectivism in One Lesson is that book. In layman's terms, using vivid examples, Andrew Bernstein clearly explains the brilliant ideas that animate the conflict and characters of Anthem, The Fountainhead, and Atlas Shrugged. This is the definitive introductory text to the rational philosophy that will transform the world.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780761843597
Publisher:	Bloomsbury Academic
Publication date:	09/17/2008
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	138
Product dimensions:	5.90(w) x 8.90(h) x 0.50(d)

About the Author

Andrew Bernstein holds a Ph.D. in Philosophy from the Graduate School of the City University of New York. His book, The Capitalist Manifesto: The Historic, Economic and Philosophic Case for Laissez-Faire was published by University Press of America in 2005. Andrew Bernstein is also the author of the Cliff Notes for Anthem, The Fountainhead, and Atlas Shrugged. Additional essays and information about Dr. Bernstein can be found at his website: www.andrewbernstein.net.

Table of Contents

Chapter 1 Introduction Chapter 2 Why Philosophy? Chapter 3 Values as the Meaning of Life Chapter 4 Egoism vs. Cynical Exploitativeness Chapter 5 Rationality as the Fundamental Means of Achieving Values: The First Semester of the Lesson Chapter 6 The Universe as and Intelligible Natural System Chapter 7 Objectivity as the Method of Rational Cognition Chapter 8 Man the Hero Chapter 9 The Nature of the Good Chapter 10 Virtue as a Requirement of Survival Chapter 11 The Moral and the Practical Chapter 12 Individual Rights as a Necessity of Human Life Chapter 13 Capitalism as the System Embodying Rational Philosophical Principles Epilogue: The Lesson of Objectivism Re-Stated

Editorial Reviews

A wonderful addition to a growing list of important new books on Ayn Rand and her philosophy, Objectivism. Bernstein's unique achievement is to take Rand's complex philosophical system and to explain it in terms that ordinary people can understand. Bernstein demonstrates with crystal clear prose and provocative examples drawn from everyday life that Objectivism is the only philosophy that supports the true American spirit of liberty.

C. Bradley Thompson

This is the Bible for businessmen. In a contemporary and readable fashion, Objectivism in One Lesson presents the moral propriety of capitalism, profit, and rational self-interest. Bernstein's refreshing take will benefit both the start-up and the CEO. This is the perfect book for those inspired by Ayn Rand's novels but who don't yet understand the philosophy behind the fiction.

Jonathan Hoenig

Objectivism in One Lesson is a must read for all profit-driven businessmen. It clearly explains Ayn Rand's philosophy of reason, self-interest, and capitalism that businessmen need to validate the moral rightness of their productive, profit-generating work.

Mark Rothstein

Objectivism in One Lesson shows the life-giving power of Ayn Rand's philosophy, a power that dictators of every degree—from abusive parents to statist politicians—-do not want an individual to discover. Bernstein's brilliant book helps the individual understand the revolutionary ideas present in The Fountainhead and Atlas Shrugged and thereby take control of his thinking, his mental health, and indeed, his life.

Ellen Kenner

For decades, there has been no book for the intelligent layman who enjoyed Ayn Rand's The Fountainhead and Atlas Shrugged and wished to understand the complex philosophical system they embody. Bernstein's book gives him just that, making its fundamentals clear and accessible. His master-stroke is to identify the theme of Rand's philosophy—"man's rational mind is his sole means of gaining knowledge, survival, and happiness"—and to use this principle as a the core around which to organize his exposition. I will certainly use this book in my courses. A little gem.

Jurgis Brakas

This is the Bible for businessmen. In a contemporary and readable fashion, Objectivism in One Lesson presents the moral propriety of capitalism, profit, and rational self-interest. Bernstein's refreshing take will benefit both the start-up and the CEO. This is the perfect book for those inspired by Ayn Rand's novels but who don't yet understand the philosophy behind the fiction.--Jonathan Hoenig, Fox News Contributor, Portfolio Manager, Capitalistpig Hedge Fund LLC

Objectivism in One Lesson is a must read for all profit-driven businessmen. It clearly explains Ayn Rand's philosophy of reason, self-interest, and capitalism that businessmen need to validate the moral rightness of their productive, profit-generating work.--Mark Rothstein, Founder and President, Harmony Financial Advisers, Host of Mr. Money radio and television shows

A wonderful addition to a growing list of important new books on Ayn Rand and her philosophy, Objectivism. Bernstein's unique achievement is to take Rand's complex philosophical system and to explain it in terms that ordinary people can understand. Bernstein demonstrates with crystal clear prose and provocative examples drawn from everyday life that Objectivism is the only philosophy that supports the true American spirit of liberty.--C. Bradley Thompson, Ph. D., Executive Director, The Clemson Institute for the Study of Capitalism

From the Publisher