Summary

"The Virtue of Selfishness: A New Concept of Egoism" is a collection of essays by Ayn Rand and Nathaniel Branden, outlining the philosophy of Objectivism. Rand challenges the traditional altruistic morality, advocating for rational self-interest as a virtue. She defines selfishness as acting in one's own rational self-interest, emphasizing that this is not equivalent to acting on one's whims or irrational desires.

The book delves into various aspects of Objectivist ethics, including the nature of values, the importance of individual rights, and the role of government in a free society. Rand argues that individuals should be the beneficiaries of their own actions and that altruism, with its emphasis on self-sacrifice, is detrimental to both the individual and society. She posits that a rational society is based on the recognition of individual rights, where people interact through voluntary exchange and mutual benefit.

Key themes explored include the concept of voluntary government financing, where individuals would choose to pay for governmental services rather than being subjected to compulsory taxation. The book also addresses issues such as the nature of compromise, the dangers of collectivized ethics, and the importance of moral judgment. Rand critiques the notion of "collective rights," emphasizing that only individual men have rights. She challenges the altruist-collectivist premise that men are their "brothers' keepers," advocating instead for a society where individuals are free to pursue their own happiness and self-interest, guided by reason and objective values.