PoliticsAugust 23, 2026

objectivism

ob-JEK-tuh-viz-um

Definition

The philosophy developed by Ayn Rand, which advocates for reason, rational self-interest, and laissez-faire capitalism as the essential components of human life.

Etymology

The word is derived from the Latin 'objectum,' meaning 'thing presented to the mind,' combined with the suffix '-ism' to denote a system or theory. Ayn Rand coined the term to emphasize her belief that reality exists independent of human consciousness.

In the news

In the article, the author lists Objectivism alongside other political ideologies to explain how followers can become dogmatic and refuse to tolerate questioning of core doctrines. It serves as an example of a belief system that the author appreciates for certain insights without adopting it as a totalizing identity.

The Blogs: Are You a True Believer?

Read the full article ↗

The Times of Israel

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