Objectivism

The Philosophy of Ayn Rand

By: Leonard Peikoff

Narrated by: Johanna Ward

Length: 19 hrs and 33 mins

Publisher's summary

This brilliantly conceived book is based on a lecture course given by Dr. Leonard Peikoff in 1976 entitled, "The Philosophy of Objectivism". The lectures were attended by Ayn Rand, who helped prepare them and who also joined Peikoff in answering questions. Ayn Rand said of these lectures: "Until or unless I write a comprehensive treatise on my philosophy, Dr. Peikoff's course is the only authorized presentation of the entire theoretical structure of objectivism; that is, the only one that I know of my own knowledge to be fully accurate."

Peikoff, as Rand's foremost interpreter, here reveals both the abstract fundamentals of objectivism and its practical applications, with much new material that Rand offered only in private conversations with Peikoff.

©1991 Leonard Peikoff (P)2003 Blackstone Audiobooks

Critic reviews

"A revelation. Peikoff is an extraordinary communicator....He brings the most difficult intellectual ideas within the grasp of the general reader....An awesome intellectual experience." (Detroit Free Press)

Essential listening

What made the experience of listening to Objectivism the most enjoyable?

Good narrator, excellent content

Any additional comments?

There's some issues with Peikoff describing Rand. Remember that this isn't Rand's view of objectivism, despite being portrayed as such - this is Peikoff's view of Rand's view. It's probably the best account of Ayn Rand's opinions to date, but still not her own account.

fascinating content, but annoying voice

brilliant theories, just too much and too difficult to listen "on the go"

absolutely amazing!

i have read all rand's books and finally realized there was no comprehensive overview of her entire system. i found this book, and i am so happy i did!

Beautifully read and mentally refreshing

Rand's philosophy, compiled by Peikoff seeks to explain reality as it is and does so from nothing. The logic is perfection. The form; well reasoned. She is able to cleanly establish the moral imperative to allow the individual optimal freedoms that they may be free to create advancements that guide man to their optimal flourishing. Basically, she is as right as it is possible to be given then knowledge that we have about reality. Additionally, the narration made it easy to follow and engaging even though material with this formal a structure is often drab. Peikoff's compilation makes the logical steps from "I am a being which thinks living in a knowable world" to the ramifications of this statement, that man's greatest purpose is his own flourishing. It was an excellent piece and I recommend this book for everyone, but especially those who cannot see why freedom and the free exchange of goods is necessary for a successful society.

Beacon for Reason

A must after reading Atlas Shrugged and The Fountainhead, or if you want to find happiness in life and the well thought logic behind the Objectivism ethic. Very well presented and performed.

Understanding one's self better now

I really had to listen carefully since it is written at a high level. As an engineer, philosophy is a new frontier for me later in life. I seek to understand.

I loved it.

Amazing Work of Philosophy

This book really lays out the philosophy. All one has to do is think.

Breathtakingly Ambitious and Well-written

A compilation of ideas so powerful it may change your life - and save the West.

Amazing

I think everyone could find something useful in this book. I would highly recommend it

Great Listen

Great philosophies, typical Ayn Rand. Definitely something you have to listen to again and again and again and again.