Episode 78: Ayn Rand on Living Rationally

Summary: On Rand's Introduction to Objectivist Epistemology (1967) and "The Objectivist Ethics" (1961).<br> First Rand grounds everyday human knowledge, largely by dismissing the concerns of other philosophers (even those whom she unknowingly parrots) as absurd. Then she uses this certainty to argue for her semi-Nietzschean vision of Great Men who master their emotions and rely only on themselves. Mark, Wes, Dylan, and Seth are satisfied with neither effort.<br> Warning: This attempt to make sense of Rand's texts will likely offend any Randians out there, and our reading numerous passages from her alleged "texts" may offend the rest of you. When in doubt, curl up in the fetal position and moan "A=A!" over and over again until the bad sounds stop.<br> Correction: The movie Atlas Shrugged actually got 11% on Rotten Tomatoes, with Part II getting 5%, both greater than L. Ron Hubbard's Battlefield Earth's 2%. So sorry.<br> <a href="http://partiallyexaminedlife.com/2013/06/14/topic78-ayn-rand/" target="_blank">Read more about topic and get the texts</a> (and <a href="http://partiallyexaminedlife.com/2013/06/14/topic78-ayn-rand/comment-page-1/#comments" target="_blank">check out the comments</a> to see me debate a real-life Randian).<br> End song: "Things We Should Do" by <a href="http://marklint.com" target="_blank">Mark Lint</a> featuring <a href="http://www.lucylawlessfanclub.com/" target="_blank">Lucy Lawless</a> (2013). <a href="http://partiallyexaminedlife.com/2013/06/27/partially-naked-self-examination-music-blog-things-we-should-do/" target="_blank">Read about it</a>.<br> This episode is sponsored by Audible. Go get your free audiobook today at <a href="http://audiblepodcast.com/PEL" target="_blank">www.audiblepodcast.com/PEL</a>.<br> Please support the podcast by <a href="http://partiallyexaminedlife.com/membership-options/" target="_blank">becoming a PEL Citizen</a> or <a href="http://partiallyexaminedlife.com/shopdonate/" target="_blank">making a donation</a>.<br> <br>