Libertarianism is officially dead

[Adrahil]

18. weasel words.

She believes that charity is immoral.

I think the concept of "rational self-interest": is a weak ass excuse for people to justify their own selfish behavior. It elevates the individual above all else. It is a useless concept since what constitutes "rational self interest" is entirely subjective. It can be, and IS, used to justify behaviors which are destructive to functional social society.

And yes, I do see people motivated by altruism. And no, I do not think altruism is our default mode. That is why it is a virtue. It must be aspired to and achieved.

Nothing I said abrogates individual rights. But individuals exist within a context. It is a mistake to see the individual and the community as being at odds with each other, IMO. When I had a recent huge political fight with my in-laws, I had a hard time getting them to understand this basic concept. We are each individuals, but humans are social animals. What the community does, or does not do, affects individuals, and what individuals do or do not do, affects the community.

Rand's philosophy elevates the individual above all else. It is a false dichotomy and corrosive proposition, IMO. I think we, as individuals, DO have a duty to our fellow citizens. Rand rejects such an idea.