Ayn Rands Approach to Ethics - Essay Example

In the first case, the argument was presented that there exist some privileged starting points for knowledge which effectively translates to arguments being meaningless if they are not connected along the 'correct lines'. Moreover, in regards to confusing meanings with reference, this means that all concepts that are formed uniquely would be ruled out. Finally, confusing universals with concepts is simply an error that makes for a difficult argumentation.

Having highlighted all of these weaknesses it is important to highlight some strengths. It was argued by Firehammer (2005) that Ayn Rand ultimately admired the strong and frowned upon weakness. In regards to the character development in her writings (And ultimately her outlook as a person) many of her type characters were portrayed as being physically strong and of strong moral character. What this could translate to is an argument that it is the purpose of art to not only highlight what the world is but what it could be. In essence, people should moralistically strive for better which is a wise philosophical outlook.

In essence, Atlas sort of represents the societal members that make life worth living. The weight of the world is essentially the overtaxing of these people, and hypothetically if 'Atlas' were to shrug then the world would learn what it would be like to exist without these key people. Of course, this could in essence have strong consequences. Ponder the consequences of a world in which there is no more investment capital, no more scientific innovations, or no more intelligent civil servants supplying crucial services to citizens. As this would provide a valuable learning experience for the people who depend on an 'atlas' one could argue that it is both a bad and a good thing.