Ayn Rand's Objectivism

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Famous novelist and philosopher Ayn Rand developed the objectivist worldview, which strongly emphasizes individualism, justifiable self-interest, and following one's pleasure. Applying objectivism to the moral dilemmas surrounding abortion offers a distinct perspective that may deviate from other accepted ethical notions. Using the idea of individual rights as a focal point, this paper examines how Ayn Rand's objectivism supports a pro-choice stance on abortion. In ethics, Rand argued for rationality and ethical egoism as the guiding moral principles. She said the individual should "exist for his own sake, neither sacrificing himself to others nor sacrificing others to himself." Rand's view is that self-interest, properly understood, is the standard of morality, and selflessness is the deepest immorality. Self-interest, rightly understood, according to Rand, is to see oneself as an end in oneself. …show more content…
A woman's right to autonomy over her own body, including the decision to have an abortion, can be defended using objectivism. According to Rand's ideology, a woman has the inherent right to decide how to have children since it is consistent with the larger idea of individual sovereignty. Objectivism maintains that interference in personal affairs is an infringement on one's right to privacy and that the role of the state should be limited to protecting individual liberty. Regarding abortion, Rand would likely contend that restrictions on a woman's freedom of choice undermine her independence and deny people the last say over their own moral