I see now why the world and this country is in trouble and the government keeps growing. If on a conservative forum people can’t see the difference between individualism(capitalism) and collectivism(socialism) then the world is doomed and it’s not people like me who are dooming it.
http://www.objectivistcenter.org/cth—406-FAQ_Virtue_Selfishness.aspx
What does Ayn Rand mean when she describes selfishness as a virtue?
Answer by J. Raibley
Ayn Rand rejects altruism, the view that self-sacrifice is the moral ideal. She argues that the ultimate moral value, for each human individual, is his or her own well-being. Since selfishness (as she understands it) is serious, rational, principled concern with one’s own well-being, it turns out to be a prerequisite for the attainment of the ultimate moral value. For this reason, Rand believes that selfishness is a virtue.
In the introduction to her collection of essays on ethical philosophy, The Virtue of Selfishness (VOS), Rand writes that the “exact meaning” of selfishness is “concern with one’s own interests” (VOS, vii). In that work, Rand argues that a virtue is an action by which one secures and protects one’s rational values—ultimately, one’s life and happiness. Since a concern with one’s own interests is a character trait that, when translated into action, enables one to achieve and guard one’s own well-being, it follows that selfishness is a virtue. One must manifest a serious concern for one’s own interests if one is to lead a healthy, purposeful, fulfilling life.
> I see now why the world and this country is in trouble and the government keeps growing. If on a conservative forum people can’t see the difference between individualism(capitalism) and collectivism(socialism)
Speaking personally, I think people are upset with you because you chose this particular thread to air your particularly self-focused viewpoints, in the face of what is unquestionably a selfless and brave act by a British Royal Marine Commando.
> then the world is doomed and it’s not people like me who are dooming it.
On the contrary: people like you are a huge part of the problem.
> What does Ayn Rand mean when she describes selfishness as a virtue?
Ayn Rand or Jesus Christ — which to pick? Ah, choices, choices, choices...
> Ayn Rand rejects altruism, the view that self-sacrifice is the moral ideal. She argues that the ultimate moral value, for each human individual, is his or her own well-being. Since selfishness (as she understands it) is serious, rational, principled concern with one’s own well-being, it turns out to be a prerequisite for the attainment of the ultimate moral value. For this reason, Rand believes that selfishness is a virtue
She would get along well with Satan then.
> In the introduction to her collection of essays on ethical philosophy, The Virtue of Selfishness (VOS), Rand writes that the “exact meaning” of selfishness is “concern with one’s own interests” (VOS, vii). In that work, Rand argues that a virtue is an action by which one secures and protects one’s rational values—ultimately, one’s life and happiness. Since a concern with one’s own interests is a character trait that, when translated into action, enables one to achieve and guard one’s own well-being, it follows that selfishness is a virtue. One must manifest a serious concern for one’s own interests if one is to lead a healthy, purposeful, fulfilling life.
I would not like to live in a world populated by such selfish people as these. Luckily for you, there are unselfish people who will fight and die for your right to be selfish. I guess that makes them less virtuous than your fine self — a failing that they probably don’t mind having at all.
A little corner in your little world with Ayn and and yerself, is probably the best place for ya.
It's amazing how well you can quote things but don't seem to understand the things you're quoting.
In the introduction to her collection of essays on ethical philosophy, The Virtue of Selfishness (VOS), Rand writes that the “exact meaning” of selfishness is “concern with one’s own interests” (VOS, vii). In that work, Rand argues that a virtue is an action by which one secures and protects one’s rational values—ultimately, one’s life and happiness. Since a concern with one’s own interests is a character trait that, when translated into action, enables one to achieve and guard one’s own well-being, it follows that selfishness is a virtue. One must manifest a serious concern for one’s own interests if one is to lead a healthy, purposeful, fulfilling life.
Selfishness here (as Rand defines it) is different from the common vernacular of "Jimmy isn't sharing his toys with the other children." It's a completely individualistic thing. Doing that which protects one's rational values. Those values which are important to the person. If someone has a calling to serve his or her community, to put others' safety before their own, then that is serving his or her own self interest, hence, as Rand would define it, "selfish." Where Rand has a serious problem is when someone demands that you owe them service.
The Lance Corporal is a volunteer and a reservist, not even "regular military!" He's volunteered to do something that he feels is important, again, serving his own self interest.
Again, I have yet to see anyone here demand anything of you, other than being civil, and not denigrating the service of others.
Mark