Introduction to the Objectivist Ethics | 2023-24
Lead Faculty
Tara Smith
This course will examine the foundational principles of Ayn Rand’s moral philosophy while addressing core questions that her theory typically raises. Its major topics will be: the foundations of value; the objectivity of value (in contrast with intrinsicist and subjectivist conceptions); the fact-value relationship; survival “versus” flourishing; the choice to live; the causal character of moral guidance; the role of values and virtues; egoism. Principal readings will be essays and excerpts from Ayn Rand and Leonard Peikoff, possibly supplemented with essays by other scholars of Objectivism.
Audit the Class
Auditing is a great choice for students who want to attend live lectures, ask questions, and participate in some discussions, but do not want to submit assignments.
A typical auditor is a busy professional or retiree, who finds our courses enriching and seeks to learn from our faculty as a hobby. You do not need to apply to audit, simply pay the tuition fee and you will be automatically enrolled in the course.
$790.00
Apply to be a Graded Student
Graded students in this course are expected to attend lectures and discussion sections, and also to submit assignments to the faculty. Assignments will be graded and given feedback.
To enter this course as a graded student, you must be accepted into the graded program of Ayn Rand University and achieve the necessary prerequisites. Your annual tuition covers as many courses as you wish to take. Most accepted students are granted scholarships, which substantially defray their tuition cost.
Scholarships Available
Registration
Level
Quarter
Description
This course will examine the foundational principles of Ayn Rand’s moral philosophy while addressing core questions that her theory typically raises. Its major topics will be: the foundations of value; the objectivity of value (in contrast with intrinsicist and subjectivist conceptions); the fact-value relationship; survival “versus” flourishing; the choice to live; the causal character of moral guidance; the role of values and virtues; egoism. Principal readings will be essays and excerpts from Ayn Rand and Leonard Peikoff, possibly supplemented with essays by other scholars of Objectivism.
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