خلاصة:
Ayn Rand was a Russian-born American philosopher, novelist, and playwright, whose interpretation of ethical egoism is one of the most important interpretations of this theory. Rand is a proponent of intellectual egoism, and rationalism is a fundamental element in her ethical theory. This article attempts to review, analyze, and criticize her interpretation of ethical egoism. Additionally, an ethical theory known as ego-altruism will be introduced in opposition to Rand’s theory. Ego-altruism proposes that the pivot of ethics is to maintain balance and equilibrium between the self and others.
ملخص الجهاز:
Definition of Ethics and Criterion of Moral Value Since Rand believes in freedom of choice for man, she maintains that ethics solely belongs to him (1984, 12).
To determine the criterion of moral value, Rand studied the nature of living creatures.
The Relation between Egoism and Moral Values In her book, Ayn Rand's Normative Ethics, Tara Smith describes Rand’s ethical egoism and explains why it is egoistic.
Based on this ethical theory, it is only self-preservation which would motivate man to apply moral values and principles in his life (Smith 2006, 23).
According to Smith, when Rand speaks of two options of life and death for man and considers the selection of one of them as the starting point for moral values and principles, in fact she explains her egoistic ethical system.
Here, Rand introduces the theory of egoism as one that has a pivotal role for man's intellect and values (Bernstein 1984, 14).
To Consider Personal Life as the Criterion of Value Rand believes that the life of a living creature is the foundation of all moral values and an ethical action is that which leads to survival.
1. Results of Field Studies According to Rand, there is a direct connection between ethical egoism and the achievement of happiness.
Thus, if seeking one's own desires and ignoring other people's inherent value do not lead to happiness, then Rand's ethical theory is in question.
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