Ayn Rand here sets for the the moral principles of Objectivism, the philosophy that holds man's life - the life proper to a rational being - as the standard of moral values and regards altruism as imcompatible with man's nature, with the creative requirements of his survival and with a free society. Ayn Rand wrote Atlas Shrugged, philosophically the most challenging bestseller in its time. Her first novel, We the Living, was published in 1936. With the publication of The Fountainhead in 1943, she achieved a spectacular and enduring success. Miss Rand's unique philosophy, Objectivism, has gained a worldwide audience. The fundamentals of her philosophy are set forth in four nonfiction books: Introduction to Objectivist Epistemology, For the New Intellectual, The Virtue of Selfishness, and Capitalism: the Unknown Ideal. The magnificent statement of her artistic credo, The Romantic Manifesto, is also available in a Signet edition.

In her dystopian novella *Anthem*, Ayn Rand presents a haunting vision of a future devoid of individuality and personal freedom, set in a collectivist society where the word "I" has been obliterated from existence. The narrative follows the journey of Equality 7-2521, a rebellious individual who discovers the power of self and the concept of personal identity. Rand's lyrical prose and philosophical undertones make for an engaging exploration of objectivism, positing the inherent value of the individual against the backdrop of a conformist society, ultimately advocating for the pursuit of one's own happiness and purpose. Ayn Rand, a Russian-American writer and philosopher, crafted *Anthem* during a time of great political upheaval in the early 20th century, influenced by her own experiences of totalitarianism in Soviet Russia. Her commitment to individualism and capitalism is evidenced throughout this novella, reflecting her belief that society should foster rather than suppress personal achievement and ambition. Rand's philosophical insights resonate deeply, revealing the tenets of her objectivist philosophy through her protagonist's journey of self-discovery. *Anthem* is highly recommended for readers interested in political philosophy, individualism, and the critique of collectivism. Its succinct narrative and profound themes make it an essential read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of personal freedom and the importance of the self in a world often bent on conformity.

Ayn Rand discusses the lies of social progressivism and how seemingly virtuous ideals like altruism degrade society into a morass of self-imposed slavery. Rand also explains why capitalism is so important, and how America has largely given up on core principles like freedom and individual liberty to appease the communistic tendencies of intellectuals and politicians. According to Rand, the strong supporting the weak doesn't benefit the weak, but impedes everyone and leads only to a failed society.Excerpts:"Capitalism does not tell men to serve and sacrifice but to produce and profit. Capitalism does not preach passivity, humility, and resignation, but independence, self-confidence, and self-reliance. Above all, capitalism does not permit anyone to expect or demand, to give or to take that which is unearned. [...] Most people still lack the courage to realize that capitalism, real, free, uncontrolled, unregulated, laissez-faire capitalism, not the mongrel mixed economy we have today, was the ideal social system, which mankind had almost achieved, then lost.""Businessmen are a cheerful, benevolent, optimistic, predominantly American phenomenon. The essence of their job is the constant struggle to improve human life, to satisfy human needs and desires -- not to practice resignation, surrender, and worship of suffering. Here is the profound gulf between businessmen and altruism: businessmen do not sacrifice themselves to others. If they did, they would be out of business in a few months or days. They profit. They grow rich. They are rewarded as they should be. This is what the altruist, the collectivist, and other sundry humanitarians hate the businessmen for, that they pursue a personal goal and succeed at it."