Dr. Sadler is not an Objectivist, but he gives what is, in my view, a good introductory presentation on Rand's ethics. I encourage anyone interested in the broader study of Rand in academia, to watch this video (at least in part) and leave polite comments on the YouTube video page.
My main critiques of Dr. Sadler's presentation have already been voiced in the page comments. They are the following:
Overall, this is a very good presentation of Rand's ethics. Thank you, Dr. Sadler.
Just a few points: Contrary to 52:48, Rand wouldn't say the choice of friends is arbitrary, but ought to depend on their objective virtues/values. Vicious people harm one's own life when you're involved with them; virtuous people typically benefit one's own life.
Also worth emphasizing: Man *creates* wealth/values (material and spiritual) by acting on proper reasoning. There isn't a fixed "pie."
Also, Rand regards virtues as eminently practical. A breach of integrity has very real, self-destructive consequences in the long-term. There is no gap between morally principled action and practical action. (Practical for achieving long-term flourishing.)
Finally, "Ayn" rhymes with "mine." : )
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Related Posts:
The Nature of the Morality of Rational Egoism: Short Notes
Atlas Shrugged, Altruism and Egoism
Values Are Relational But Not Subjective
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