| In the 1950's, Ayn Rand founded her own school of thought---Objectivism. She claims that Objectivism is founded solidly in Aristotle's texts. Many have questioned the validity of this assertion over the last fifty years. Rand had a profound respect for Aristotle, calling him "The Father of All Western Thought." Aristotle's work in the Nichomachean Ethics influenced the very heart of Rand's philosophy---in the development of the 'Great Souled Man,' which became the foundation for Rand's fictional heroes. Rand's critics have sought to separate Rand and Aristotle on issues such as---Friendship, Society, Purpose and Method. In this thesis, I hope to disclose those areas of common ground which Rand and Aristotle did share, and examine the degree to which their philosophies can be reconciled with one another. |
