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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
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The Virtue of Selfishness summary
A New Concept of Egoism
19 mins
Brief summary
The Virtue of Selfishness by Ayn Rand is a collection of essays on ethical egoism, arguing that self-interest is the foundation of morality and that altruism is destructive.
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The Virtue of Selfishness
Summary of 6 key ideas
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Key idea 1 of 6
Morality can be determined objectively.
Most people agree that taste is subjective. Some people like spicy foods – others can’t stand them. Some people like rich desserts – others prefer something lighter.
On the whole, these preferences don’t cause us much trouble. We’re content to live and let live, so we don’t insist that our tastes are objectively “correct.”
But what about when it comes to something serious? What about morality? Is that just a personal preference too?
To put the question another way, are ethical beliefs purely subjective? Or can we actually ground them in hard facts?
The key message here is: Morality can be determined objectively.
According to the author, morality isn’t just a question of taste. The issue of right and wrong is one that arises from the facts of life. How so?
Well, a human being is an organism like any other. And, like all living things, humans face two stark options at any given time: life or death. If we don’t want to die, then we naturally opt for life. This decision is key because committing to life provides us with a standard we can use to weigh up our actions.
This point is worth dwelling on. By committing to survival, we provide ourselves with a fundamental value – life. And with that single value, we’ve set up a natural ethical framework.
What does this framework look like? Well, it’s pretty simple: what helps us to survive is good, and what threatens our existence is bad.
That all sounds fairly straightforward. The problem is, humans can’t always tell which actions will help them survive and which will endanger them. We can’t rely on our instincts alone to tell poisonous berries from edible ones, or true friends from traitors. These are questions we must figure out for ourselves.
In other words, in order to choose between the good options that keep us alive, and the bad options that threaten our survival, we must use our ability to reason.
Of course, we can get it wrong, and end up making foolish decisions. But that doesn’t change the facts of morality. Some decisions are objectively good for us – and some are objectively bad.
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What is The Virtue of Selfishness about?
The Virtue of Selfishness (1964) is an argument in favor of self-interest and capitalist economics. At the time of its publication, it was a bold and original assertion of a new moral creed. This daring work is sure to challenge many deeply held ideals.
The Virtue of Selfishness Review
The Virtue of Selfishness (1964) is a thought-provoking exploration of Ayn Rand's philosophy of Objectivism, focusing on the importance of rational self-interest. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- It presents a bold and controversial perspective on morality and capitalism, challenging conventional thinking and encouraging critical reflection.
- Through clear and concise arguments, it champions individualism and advocates for the pursuit of one's own happiness as the highest moral purpose.
- The book defends the ethical legitimacy of self-interest and addresses common misconceptions, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in philosophy or politics.
Who should read The Virtue of Selfishness?
- Contrarians fond of audacious moral arguments
- Entrepreneurs in favor of free enterprise
- Political enthusiasts interested in challenging their convictions
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The Virtue of Selfishness FAQs
What is the main message of The Virtue of Selfishness?
The main message of The Virtue of Selfishness is the importance of putting one's own self-interests first.
How long does it take to read The Virtue of Selfishness?
The reading time for The Virtue of Selfishness varies depending on the reader's speed. However, the Blinkist summary can be read in just a few minutes.
Is The Virtue of Selfishness a good book? Is it worth reading?
The Virtue of Selfishness offers a unique perspective on self-interest and individualism. It is worth exploring for those interested in philosophical ideas.
Who is the author of The Virtue of Selfishness?
The author of The Virtue of Selfishness is Ayn Rand.
What to read after The Virtue of Selfishness?
If you're wondering what to read next after The Virtue of Selfishness, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand
- For a New Liberty by Murray N. Rothbard
- The General Theory of Employment, Interest, and Money by John Maynard Keynes
- In Defense of Selfishness by Peter Schwartz
- Limitless Mind by Jo Boaler
- The Myth of Sisyphus by Albert Camus
- You Only Die Once by Jodi Wellman
- Hardcore Self Help by Robert Duff
- The Algebra of Wealth by Scott Galloway
- Talking to Strangers by Malcolm Gladwell