Alvin Toffler Interview with Ayn Rand

I have literally spent a lifetime in the study of objectivism. My exploration began at a fairly early age, in my early teens, and my investigations and research have spanned over fifty years since that time. I have never really been intrigued with the arguments that many have waged with Ayn Rand and objectivism, for the simple reason that their commentary and criticisms always felt, not intellectual, but emotional, not philosophical, but political, and not substantive, but only vindictive and empty rhetoric. illogical and unreasonable, if you will.

The failure to engage, with no discernable intent to discuss or debate, was frustrating and confusing. If someone truly disagrees with another, I think it would be completely understandable if they wanted to challenge and call them out, but they rarely if ever did so, it was more just a matter of vilification, and condemnation, with no expectation or intent to delve into the differences to illustrate or prove their points.

There seems to be a strong motivation to articulate their positions, but if one listens, there is more silence and ignorance than anything else. I find that unfortunate since I would relish the opportunity to try and explain, at least from my point of view, where I see contradictions and misinformation in their perspectives. I will be trying to make distinctions as I relate, by my own observations and interpretations of the ideology, as well as the creator and messenger, Ayn Rand.

All of these essays, and all the items that I will offer to address and rectify these misguided misrepresentations of Ayn Rand and objectivism, are for the specific purpose of at least bringing some level of clarity to what she actually says in her work. One can still feel free to disagree and even to criticize, but, for those who are looking to understand objectivism, have a real desire to hear the 'truth', at least as she experienced it, and are confused by the cacophony of hatred in the guise of reasoned argument, I hope to present her ideas in her own words, as much as possible, so the distinction can be made as to what is being represented as her positions, and the dishonest attempt to pervert and distort her philosophy and her legacy.

Objectivism has much to offer anyone looking for answers, and if one can take the time to listen to her own words, as opposed to those that do 'not' wish to hear or understand, then maybe they can take something of value and substance away from the experience.

It is my only intent. To engage with others, to share experience and perspective, to understand what the philosophy encompasses and the intent as well as the expectations. What the individual does with this information is for them alone to determine. That, actually, is the essence of objectivism. To think, to contemplate, to investigate, to make decisions and ultimately to come to conclusions, and hopefully use those deliberations in their daily life to find some degree of fulfillment, peace and harmony. With self, and with others.

So many see nothing but negatives within objectivism. I see nothing but positives, all at the beck and call of the individual. Objectivism does not create bad people, but bad people exist and will always thwart those that try to be the complete opposite. Take the time to listen, to learn, to grow and to evolve into the best person that it is possible for you to be.

I can only wish you peace in your search for understanding.


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