Objectivists

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A group of individuals who advocate for a philosophy emphasizing reason, individualism, and objective reality in moral and ethical considerations
2. People who subscribe to a belief system that values rational self-interest and the pursuit of one's own happiness as the highest moral purpose
3. Practitioners of a philosophical viewpoint that rejects subjectivity, promoting the idea that knowledge and truth are based on observable facts and logic rather than feelings or opinions

Etymology: The term "objectivists" refers to followers or advocates of Objectivism, a philosophical system developed by the Russian-American writer and philosopher Ayn Rand in the mid-20th century. Rand introduced her ideas in the novel "The Fountainhead," published in 1943, and later expanded on them in her non-fiction work "Atlas Shrugged" in 1957. The philosophy emphasizes rational self-interest, individualism, and capitalism, arguing that the moral purpose of one's life is the pursuit of one's own happiness. The followers of her philosophy, thus termed "objectivists," embrace these principles as foundational to their worldview. The roots of this term can be traced back to the word "objective," deriving from the Latin "objectivus," which means "pertaining to an object." The transition into English occurred around the 16th century, and from there, it evolved to signify an emphasis on factual, unbiased perspectives. When Rand's philosophy took shape in the 20th century, she adapted the term to reflect her belief in objective reality and the importance of reason and logic in human affairs. This philosophical framework marked a distinct departure from other schools of thought that emphasized collectivism or altruism, making the term particularly resonant in the context of post-war American individualism. The suffix "-ist" is a common English addition that denotes a person who practices or is concerned with a particular doctrine or system. In this case, it signifies someone who actively subscribes to the principles of Objectivism, advocating for a worldview rooted in rationality and personal freedom. The combination of these elements not only captures the essence of the philosophy but also highlights the cultural and intellectual movement that emerged around Rand's ideas, influencing various fields including economics, literature, and ethics. Since its inception, Objectivism has engendered both fervent support and substantial criticism, and the label "objectivists" has come to embody a group of individuals who advocate for a specific set of values and beliefs. Today, this term continues to be used widely in discussions of philosophy, politics, and economics, reflecting the enduring impact of Rand's ideas on contemporary thought.

Synonyms: realists, pragmatists

Antonyms: subjectivists, idealists