Ayn Rand Quote

"Individualism regards man -- every man -- as an independent, sovereign entity who possesses an inalienable right to his own life, a right derived from his nature as a rational being.  Individualism holds that a civilized society, or any form of association, cooperation or peaceful co-existence among men, can be achieved only on the basis of the recognition of individual rights -- and that a group, as such, has no rights other than the individual rights of its members."

by:	Ayn Rand [Alisa Zinov'yevna Rosenbaum] (1905-1982) Russian-American novelist, philosopher, playwright, and screenwriter
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Categories:	Collectivism, Cooperation, Individual Rights, Individualism, Society, Sovereignty
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All rights derive from the existence of the being, they are inalienable. The nature of a rational being may exert those rights a little better but, that's not where they derive from. Other than that, absolutely.  -- Mike, Norwalk      4
Always liked her writings.  -- Cal, Lewisville, TX
"Group Rights" is an oxymoron. If every single individual does not enjoy "natural rights" then there is no such thing.  -- J Carlton, Calgary      3
-- jim k, Austin, Tx
Mike from Norwalk nailed it.  -- Matthew, Peoples Republik of Kalifornia      2
Let's face it, 'group rights' are nothing to fear -- it is a government that uses its massive power to legislate 'group rights' that is the danger. People ought to learn the very real difference between natural rights and 'civil' rights -- 'civil rights' are not really rights at all, but statutes that limit natural rights. That's why some get confused and think they have a 'right' to free housing, to free health care, to 'transgender' special treatment, to 'jobs' without having to compete with others more qualified. These are not 'rights' but privileges. Every animal on Earth has to look both ways before getting a drink of water -- they have to be on the lookout for predators -- this is Nature. They have the 'right' to defend themselves as best they can. They have the RESPONSIBILITY to provide for themselves or perish. Benefiting from living in community with others for their mutual protection is not a 'right' either -- it is a blessing when in a respectful community and a curse in a predatory one.  -- E Archer, NYC      5
-- Mary-MI
-- Ronw13, OR
-- Denise, Durango
-- warren, olathe
Very well stated.  -- warren, olathe

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