Atlas and the World

"...they, the industrialists, the conquerors of matter, had not discovered the nature of their right. They had known that theirs was the power. I taught them that theirs was the glory."
Ayn Rand, Atlas Shrugged

In October, 1957, Random House published Ayn Rand's new and long-awaited novel. The publishing world expected another best-seller. It expected a new round of controversy ignited by the author's unconventional ideas.But no one was prepared for the firestorm that followed. At once a love story, a thriller, and a saga about the collapse of a nation, Atlas Shrugged presented what Rand called a new "philosophy for life on earth." She praised industrialists and other producers, not for the benefits they bestowed on others, but for their creative achievements. She praised capitalism, money, and the profit motive as reflections of "the best that is within us." She denied that one person's need is a moral claim on the wealth or ability of anyone else. "'I refuse to apologize for my ability—I refuse to apologize for my success—I refuse to apologize for my money. If this is evil, make the most of it.'"

The cultural Establishment attacked the book savagely. But across the country—and around the world—it struck a chord with millions of readers: People who built their own businesses and knew the dedication, courage, and imagination it took. People who prized intelligence and sought to live by reason, but never knew what a virtue that was. People who cherished freedom, but were afraid to challenge the demand that they sacrifice their freedom to the collective good.

"'This country—the product of reason—could not survive on the morality of sacrifice. It was not built by men who sought self-immolation or by men who sought handouts.'"

"'The road is cleared,' said Galt. 'We are going back to the world.'"

On the fortieth birthday of the novel, "Atlas and the World" was held as a gathering of insight and reflection. Attendees discussed the meaning and impact of Atlas Shrugged with

• writers from America's leading publications
• leaders of the Cato Institute, Reason Foundation, and Institute for Objectivist Studies
• business leaders who have lived the lives of the novel's heroes

The schedule of speakers included:

Atlas and the World, Then and Now
Description: Atlas Shrugged portrays a world in decline as power-hungry politicians gain control of the economy. Was Ayn Rand's analysis prophetic, or has our world changed? Is Atlas shrugging today?
Panelists: Ed Hudgins, Cato Institute;
John Fund, The Wall Street Journal;
David Mayer, Capital University

The Influence of Atlas
Description: Atlas Shrugged was a major inspiration for the market liberal movement. Leaders of that movement will trace its impact on our society and culture.
Panelists: Robert Poole, President, Reason Foundation;
Ed Crane, President, Cato Institute;
Barbara Branden, author

The Businessman as Hero
Description: Atlas Shrugged is unique in its portrayal of industrial production as creative and of entrepreneurs as heroes. A panel of business leaders will discuss the personal and professional significance of the novel for their careers.
Moderator: John Stossel, ABC 20/20
Panelists: Ed Snider, Chairman, Comcast Spectacor;
Victor Niederhoffer, Chairman, Niederhoffer Investments;
John Aglialoro, Chairman, UM Holdings

A Philosophy for the 21st Century
Description: In an age of moral uncertainty and political disarray, the ideas of Atlas Shrugged remain crucial for the future of freedom.
Speaker: David Kelley, Executive Director, Institute for Objectivist Studies