I've been noticing (in self-promoting tea-party videos misguided friends e-mail me) increasing reference to Ayn Rand and her political "philosophy." Just a word of warning to the saints.
Ayn Rand was a Russian-born atheist who promoted a "philosophy" she called Objectivism. Her main teaching was "rational egoism:" that man's reason is the ultimate guide, and that the highest good is looking out for Number One. She despised all faiths, but reserved special hatred for Christianity's teachings of altruism, selflessness and mercy, which (in her opinion) weaken people and nations.
Allen Greenspan, Chairman of the Federal Reserve, was a personal disciple and lifelong friend of Ayn Rand. President Reagan, who appointed Greenspan, called himself her "admirer," and his policy of "de-regulating" American business won her praise. Justice Clarence Thomas has cited her writings as a major influence on his life and thought. Many other prominent "conservatives" endorse her teaching that the solution to society's problems is greater selfishness.
The libertarian movement considers her a founder. The tea-partiers, it seems, are increasingly promoting her as a great thinker and prophet.
I'd urge Christians to be aware of Ayn Rand's "philosophy," especially when it's the foundation of political deceptions targetted at Christians. A good place to start is her Wikipedia biography: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ayn_Rand.
Blessings to all,
In Jesus, Steve
