Ayn Rand's philosophy of Objectivism

[Mister Agenda]

I think that's too simple.  She took the philosophical position that empathy is a weakness of character, that decisions should be made purely rationally and without regard to human emotion.  Specifically, she felt that capable people should maximize their capability in following their own great ambitions, without regard to those who might depend on her or be less capable.

All well and good, but I think you're aware she was calling objectivism a closed philosophy. Meaning, it's not open for debate. Of course I can subscribe to reason being my guide. I try to do that every day in my decision making. Following ones ambitions, fine by me. However personal freedom ends where others get hurt and I cannot subscribe to disregarding others, just because they seem to be less capable. By who's standards anyway? It would be a sociopaths world when everyone would subscribe to Rand's whole package. And that's what a closed philosophy means. Take it or leave it, but don't change it.

I remember her many times calling Objectivism a complete philosophy, but have no recollection of her calling it a closed philosophy or claiming that it isn't open for debate. But I'm getting old and my fascination with her work passed with my Twenties, so maybe I'm just not remembering her right.

She did not advocate preying on the disadvantaged. Producers don't need to prey on anyone. People gladly give of their wages to obtain what the producer has to offer. But she didn't believe producers should be legally compelled to support the disadvantaged, y'know; with their taxes and stuff. She didn't have a problem with voluntary charity stemming from benevolence.

To me, it would be nice if benevolence was enough to cover what needs to be done, but it isn't, and taking care of people who need a hand up, a safety net, or whatever, is a long-term investment in a better future, not a waste.