Topic > Ayn Rand's Anti-Communist Ideas in Atlas Shrugged

Ayn Rand, an influential American writer and philosopher, sought to offer her readers a new perspective on the meaning of life. Raised as a Jew in a communist country, Rand struggled to find her place in society and, therefore, matured as an anti-communist citizen upon her move to the United States (Murray). In his works, he expresses personal importance, highlighting the mistakes of communism in neglecting citizens and recognizing them as collectives rather than individuals. Rand often caricatures communism as a means of preventing individuals from realizing their hopes and dreams. By conveying this message to her audience, the author encourages a self-employed, capitalist society. Through this theme of self-work, Rand's pieces incorporate her views on the importance of the struggle between the individual and society, calling attention to the enlightenment of self-study. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay Rand expresses his animosity towards communism in various ways in his works. In Atlas Shrugged, the protagonists, the capitalists, flee communism to build a society centered on their economic visions (Mallon). Here, Rand directly promotes individualism by presenting the happiness and success of these individuals in a self-growth society, a feature that was not present in a communist state. Equality 7-2521's exile as a result of learning and innovation in Anthem also shows the author's powerful anti-communist mindset, as Rand advocates individualism as a form of self-satisfaction and success (Cox). The main character's desperation in his society, much like the desperation that appears in Atlas Shrugged, demonstrates communism's inability to allow individuals to reach their full potential and reach a state of genuine fulfillment. Illuminating this thought, Rand's characters rebel against society, finding in capitalism an escape from that seemingly evil world that is communism. Atlas Shrugged uses a relatively straightforward approach to promoting capitalism, as the characters seek happiness by building a capitalist economy while on strike against the world, creating their own utopian paradise (Clardy). This approach contrasts strikingly with communism, as Rand unabashedly argues that capitalism is superior, providing the protagonists with a sense of joy that had not previously been achieved. In Anthem, a more indirect approach is used to promote capitalism as Rand shows Equality 7-2521's happiness in a home where he can learn what he wants to learn, separating himself from society to thrive as a unique individual. Rand clearly supports the idea that success, not only for society as a whole but also for each individual, is achieved when every man works for himself. His works illustrate that this goal can only be achieved in a society where individuals are encouraged to work for themselves, a society that is clearly not communist. In describing his repulsion to communism, Rand argues that success and happiness arise from self-learning. As stated in Atlas Shrugged, “Everything he needs or desires must be learned, discovered, and produced by him, by his own choice, by his own effort, by his own mind (LaBlanc and Milne).” The author encourages people to pursue their dreams, but to do it themselves. The quote clearly emphasizes "he", but no one else, whom Rand rebelled against. This seemingly absurd concept. His characters do the same, wondering why not.