If you want some insight into the times, read (or re-read) Ayn Rand's Atlas Shrugged.
I say that, very mindful of the many flaws in her work, including her militant atheism and materialism and her scary elitism.
You don't have to appreciate Rand's qualities as a philosopher in order to appreciate her ability to observe and portray--and mock!--a variety of social and political phenomena.
5 comments:
...and forecast...
My understanding is that sales of Rand's books have taken off.
Paul in Long Beach
Father, is this someone with your sign?
http://michellemalkin.com/2009/03/02/going-galt-tax-hikes-have-consequences/
I've tried to read Atlas Shrugged more times than I care to remember. Each time I try, I am struck anew by (a) how technically proficient Rand was, but (b) how two-dimensional and predictable her characters are.
The latter is enough to make me close the book in disgust every time. How many real people do you know who are as black-and-white (either totally heroic Titans or snivelling worms) as Rand's characters?
Sorry, Father - I guess I'm going to have to get the Cliff's Notes if I want to know where she takes the social commentary after the first quarter-to-third of the book...
If I wanted that kind of crap, I'd read Nietzsche. At least he's a decent writer...
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