When Ayn Rand said, “My philosophy, in essence, is the concept of man as a heroic being, with his own happiness as the moral purpose of his life, with productive achievement as his noblest activity, and reason as his only absolute”, she addressed an extremely important issue: REASON.
In today’s turbulent world of change, threat, insecurity, and anxiety, many people are hiding from the truth.
We hear that more people flock to movie houses and churches during times of war, depression, and turmoil than in any other time - an escape from reason and responsibility. Emotionalism hides the real issues, avoids responsibility, and protects the fragile ego. Blame, escapism, and justification avoids reality. You won’t solve your problems by discussing the latest CNN propaganda with your broke friends. Reason is the only accurate compass in this wild wilderness.
While it is easier to hide behind mysticism, and live vicariously through politicians, sports teams and Hollywood actors while your life falls to pieces, your debt increases, and your hopes of retirement disappear, it’s not the solution.
Reason is the final judge and jury, bringing with it the only viable explanation and solution. Reason is very scary and threatening to those who refuse to discipline themselves and take responsibility. It’s far more comfortable to stuff your face with overpriced popcorn that you can’t afford, wasting time you don’t have while mindlessly watching a meaningless movie.
Who Is Responsible for Your Well Being?
Some people mistakenly believe the government or their church will take care of them. They flee to the filthy caves of socialism, collectivism, liberation theology, and mysticism, where they will be devoured by witch doctors and bullies. They think they will be protected if they’re politically correct and remain subservient and meek. They believe that by hiding their heads in the sand they will avoid the future they fear. The consequences of their past choices are coming to get them.
In her book, Atlas Shrugged, Ayn Rand tells a fictitious, yet prophetic story that clearly explains her philosophy of Objectivism, the solution for people who want a solution. With the right philosophy, you can take control of your life, recreate and reinvent your future, and take pride in your own endeavors as a self-sufficient individual. Here’s a simple way to describe a great philosophy: “If it’s to be, it’s up to me.” Here’s another very complicated way of putting it: “I have created my present reality, and I am in control of my future.”
Environmentalism, altruism, multiculturalism, political correctness, avoiding confrontation, and an escape to mysticism are all definite signs of the avoidance of reason and personal responsibility. Miss Rand taught, “If you think something is a contradiction, check your premises.” Reason is the only absolute.
When the Catholic Church, an extremely wealthy organization, decides that it’s a sin to be extremely rich, you have to check your premises. A reasonable person would understand.
