[Oberon]

It's a reference to Ayn Rand's novel Atlas Shrugged. I'm not a Randian, but there are some elements of truth in her philosophy; Atlas Shrugged is about how the world depends on the hard work and goodwill of a relatively small fraction of the population. Sooner or later the rest of the population begins to take this hard work and goodwill for granted, and shortly thereafter demands it as their due. Not long after that, the relatively small fraction of the population on whom the rest depend walk away.

The title is a reference to the titan Atlas, who in Greek mythology bore the earth on his shoulders.

[Eric in the Ozarks]

Venezuela is a good example.

[GOP_Proud]

What a great book-jacket blurb. If our library was open today, I'd be there checking the book out. I think I'll do a search for an eBook for my Palm. Otherwise, I'll check it out tomorrow.

I read The Fountainhead years ago and enjoyed it. I don't know why I didn't try any of her other works. I don't mean to get into a philosophical debate. I just like to read.

[GWfan]

I don't like Rand much, but your post is right on.