Capitalism

The Unknown Ideal

By: Ayn Rand

Narrated by: Anna Fields

Length: 14 hrs and 13 mins

Publisher's summary

The foundations of capitalism are being battered by a flood of altruism, which is the cause of the modern world's collapse. This was the view of Ayn Rand, a view so radically opposed to prevailing attitudes that it constituted a major philosophic revolution. In this series of essays, she presented her stand on the persecution of big business, the causes of war, the default of conservatism, and the evils of altruism. Here is a challenging look at modern society by a woman who was one of the most provocative intellectuals on the American scene. Ms. Rand's unique philosophy, Objectivism, has gained a worldwide audience.

©1946 Ayn Rand (P)2000 Blackstone Audiobooks

Ayn Rand's first book of essays

This is the first of four reviews of Ayn Rand books that I am going to write. This review is of a non-fiction book of essays about the political advantages of the capitalist system. The other three will be works of fiction. Rand viewed herself as a philosopher, but she was a much better novelist than writer on philosophy.

Released in 1966 Capitalism:The Unknown Ideal is one of two important Rand books of essays (the other is The Virtue of Selfishness titled from the most important and controversial of the essays in the book). There is much worthwhile in the book, but compared to FA Hayek's works such as The Road to Serfdom, Rand's work comes across shallow and amateurish. My advice for those interested in the advantages of the capitalist economic system is to read Fredrich Hayek, Ludwig von Mises, and Milton Friedman rather than Ayn Rand's essays. Some of her essays are quite good, but her strength is as an author of fiction rather than a writer on serious philosophy.

Great insight, and great narration!

I have enjoyed Ayn Rand’s fiction books in the past, but it’s great to learn some of the thoughts that drives her philosophy and fiction work. Her opinions may differ slightly from mine, but I appreciate them all the same.

The narrator was nothing short of amazing! It’s hard to hold someone’s attention when reading political theory, but the narrator did a good job in my opinion.

Timeless Wisdom: Critically needed today.

Absolutely a must read for every single freedom-loving American. Cannot recommend enough the importance of Rands work to explain and defend Capitalism with its foundation of individual rights as the only societal means to true human progress, flourishing, and happiness in the present world.

The time taken to read or listen to this work, no matter your world view, will not be wasted.

A must read/listen.

I don't think I will ever tire of listening to this book. I will take notes next time, and the time after that, and the time after that.

Wow

This book has successfully made it to my list of favorites. I was expecting a defense of capitalism and Ayn did nothing short of deliver. This combined with The Virtue of Selfishness make for a bulletproof and flawless explination and argument for capitalism in a way that I have seen no other author provide. I hope this philisophical giant is one day read by all people who truly desire freedom and liberty.

Amazingly accurate even today

This book should be required reading for college students.

The title says it all...

If you could sum up Capitalism in three words, what would they be?

incredibly insightful.

What was the most compelling aspect of this narrative?

The understanding of private property rights are the foundation of personal and civil rights!

Great Read

In this book Ayn Rand describes the ideal politics of a civilized society. I bet the aliens would show up if we practiced this consistently.

life changing content and rational conclusions

can't wait to read it again, this helps you realize the reasons of today's economic troubles. still just as relevant as it was when it was published.

This should be required reading in schools!

Too many people have a false understanding of businesses and businessmen and this book gets it right. It explains what Capitalism is - and isn't, as well as fundamental principles, examples, and history that makes it clear why Capitalism is the only economic system for free people.