[Desperately Seeking Freedom]

Rand's "moral defense of freedom" is her greatest message. Understanding that freedom is a moral "end" unto itself, not just a means to have a rich country, is what separates true freedom-minded individuals from "socialists of all parties" (to quote Hayek).

In other words, I don't give a whit how freedom looks when it's all done, that some are rich and some are poor, some are fit and some are fit, some are happy and some are sad. To take away freedom in the name of justice or (worst of all) "to keep us safe" is the worst possible outcome.

[Registered]

I've always wondered how dead people can still have birthdays?

[higgmeister]

The true test was the opposite extreme in "Anthem" where a stark egalitarian future made all persons into slaves to the communal group so that no one would be envious or possess selfish thoughts. Tallow candles and hand implements in the fields were the finality of a hopeless existence brought about by Socialism.

Ayn Rand is as important as Frédéric Bastiat in my heart and mind.