Document Type : Biannual Journal
Author
Assistant Professor of Moral Philosophy, University of Zanjan
Abstract
Abstract
Social life requires acceptance of some norms by individuals which in turn restrict their freedom. Though the norms or so-called laws are essential to preserve order and security in the society, the laws conflict with individuals’ freedom in some cases. Due to the importance of law and individuals’ freedom and the impossibility to rule out both, a kind of philosophy is needed to resolve any possible conflicts. Ayn Rand is a philosopher who has become known as an advocate of ethical egoism. In this paper, I first discuss how previously mentioned conflict can be resolved by adopting her philosophical and ethical foundations and since it is based on her ethical theory, a brief report of her ethical egoism will be presented. Next, it will be discussed, from Rand’s point of view, why an individual enters the society. According to Rand, a rational egoist individual enters society and communicates with other individuals to receive benefits through career and knowledge. However, the individual’s interests may conflict each other. Here Rand holds that the concept of politics and government is raised to protect individual’s freedom and establish public order in the society. Finally, Rand’s response to the conflict between law and individuals’ freedoms will be analyzed and its strengths and weaknesses will be expressed.
Keywords
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