Sex and the Egoist: Measuring Ayn Rand's Fiction Against Her Philosophy
Emily J. Barr
The Journal of Ayn Rand Studies12/1/2012·Read paper
Abstract
The merit of Ayn Rand's Objectivist philosophy is often based on its economic and social tenets surrounding individual rights. Though she is often neglected by feminists, there is one aspect of Rand's fiction and philosophy that requires feminist attention: her illustration of female sexuality in response to masculinity and hero worship. In The Fountainhead (1943) and Atlas Shrugged (1957), Rand respectively presents her ideal man and the ideal manner in which a woman would respond to such a man. These actions necessarily conflict with what Rand claims is a rational ethical theory and detract from Rand's otherwise gender neutral philosophy.
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