Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand

Description

“Atlas Shrugged” is a novel written by Ayn Rand, a Russian-American philosopher and author. First published in 1957, the book is a work of fiction that explores Rand’s philosophical and political ideas, collectively known as Objectivism. The novel is often considered Rand’s magnum opus and has had a significant impact on both literature and philosophy.

“Atlas Shrugged” is set in a dystopian future where the United States is experiencing economic collapse due to collectivist and interventionist policies. The story follows a group of industrialists, inventors, and thinkers who are dissatisfied with the direction society is taking and decide to go on strike, withdrawing their talents and innovations from a society they see as increasingly hostile to individual achievement and capitalism.

The narrative intertwines the personal stories of the characters with philosophical discussions and Rand’s exploration of her Objectivist principles, which emphasize reason, individualism, rational self-interest, and laissez-faire capitalism. The title of the book comes from the idea that the “Atlas” figure of Greek mythology, who held the weight of the world on his shoulders, represents the burden of individual achievement and progress carried by the protagonists.

“Atlas Shrugged” is known for its lengthy monologues and dialogues that expound Rand’s philosophical ideas, as well as its portrayal of a world in which the individual is pitted against the collective. The novel has sparked both strong admiration and sharp criticism, with supporters praising its celebration of individualism and critics arguing against its portrayal of altruism and its treatment of complex social and political issues.

The book remains a polarizing and influential work, and it continues to provoke discussions about philosophy, politics, and the role of the individual in society. If you’re interested in exploring Rand’s philosophy and how it is presented within a work of fiction, “Atlas Shrugged” could be an engaging and thought-provoking read.