Introduction to Objectivist Epistemology Reading Group

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

Rand’s Introduction to Objectivist Epistemology (ITOE) is about the nature and mechanics of concept formation and the method of objectivity.

In this reading group, led by Craig Biddle, you will examine Rand’s ideas, principles, and arguments with a focus on three questions:

1. What is Rand’s theory of concepts, and what evidence supports it?
2. How does she develop her ideas and draw conclusions—what method does she use?
3. How can you use this method and these ideas to improve your thinking, your life, and your intellectual activism?

Along the way, you’ll deepen your understanding of the nature and mechanics of concept formation, the nature of objectivity, and the principles that make Rand’s epistemology so powerful in practice.

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].