Capitalism: The Unknown Ideal

"Capitalism: The Unknown Ideal" is a collection of essays by Ayn Rand, published in 1967, that presents her philosophy of Objectivism. Rand argues that capitalism, specifically laissez-faire capitalism, is the only moral economic system because it respects individual rights and the pursuit of self-interest. She posits that ethical egoism, where individuals act in their own rational self-interest, is a virtue, while altruism is a vice. The book advocates for a government that strictly protects individual rights to life, liberty, property, and the pursuit of happiness, with no intervention in the economy. This contrasts with Marxist analysis, which critiques capitalism for exploiting labor and leading to inherent contradictions and crises. Rand's ideas, particularly her defense of capitalism and individualism, have been influential among conservatives and libertarians.1234