Expand and deepen your understanding of Ayn Rand’s theory of concepts, with a focus on the objectivity and use-value of the ideas.

Rand’s Introduction to Objectivist Epistemology (ITOE) is about the mental mechanics of concept formation and the basic nature of objectivity. In this reading group, led by Craig Biddle, you will critically examine Rand’s arguments and the key principles of her theory of concepts, with a constant focus on two questions:

1. Are the ideas supported by evidence and logic?
2. What is the practical significance of the ideas for clear thinking, personal flourishing, and intellectual activism?

In advance of the first session, participants must read Introduction to Objectivist Epistemology, including “The Analytic-Synthetic Dichotomy” by Leonard Peikoff, and the Appendix, which consists of excerpts from epistemology workshops Rand held with several philosophers and intellectuals. Additional reading and writing assignments will require up to an hour a week outside of course time.

*To enroll in this course, you must have an invitation or permission from the instructor. Request permission by emailing Craig at [email protected].

Meet Your Instructor

Craig Biddle

Craig is cofounder and director of education at Objective Standard Institute, cofounder and editor in chief of The Objective Standard, and executive director of Prometheus Foundation. He is the author of Loving Life: The Morality of Self-Interest and the Facts that Support It; Rational Egoism: The Morality for Human Flourishing; and the forthcoming Moral Truths Your Parents, Preachers, and Teachers Don’t Want You to Know. He is currently working on his fourth book, “Thinking in Principles.” For updates on his work, join his mailing list at CraigBiddle.com.