To say 'I love you' one must first be able to say the 'I.'
Ayn RandRead
The moral justification of capitalism does not lie in the altruist claim that it represents the best way to achieve 'the common good.' It is true that capitalism does -- if that catch-phrase has any meaning -- but this is merely a secondary consequence. The moral justification for capitalism lies in the fact that it is the only system consonant with man's rational nature, that it protects man's survival qua man, and that its ruling principle is: justice
Interpretation
What this quote means
The moral justification for capitalism is rooted in its alignment with human nature and the value of individual rationality, rather than the idea of promoting the common good.
Ayn Rand argues that capitalism is morally justified not because it claims to benefit everyone, but because it respects and upholds human rationality and individual rights. She emphasizes that capitalism is about justice and is the only system that truly aligns with the essence of what it means to be human and to survive as individuals.
Themes
CapitalismMoralityRationalityJusticeIndividualism
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a debate about the ethical implications of capitalism.
More from Ayn Rand
All quotes →The difference between animals and humans is that animals change themselves for the environment, but humans change the environment for themselves.
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It is my eyes which see, and the sight of my eyes grants beauty to the earth. It is my ears which hear, and the hearing of my ears gives its song to the world. It is my mind which thinks, and the judgement of my mind is the only searchlight that can find the truth. It is my will which chooses, and the choice of my will is the only edict I must respect.
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What is the basic, the essential, the crucial principle that differentiates freedom from slavery? It is the principle of voluntary action versus physical coercion or compulsion.
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One method of destroying a concept is by diluting its meaning. Observe that by ascribing rights to the unborn, i.e., the nonliving, the anti-abortionists obliterate the rights of the living.
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I think that when in doubt about the truth of an issue, it's safer and in better taste to select the least numerous of the adversaries.
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