Manchester Ayn Rand Meetup

​Join us to dissect Ayn Rand's uncompromising essay, "The Anatomy of Compromise," originally published in her essential political collection, Capitalism: The Unknown Ideal.

​In this work, Rand challenges the universally accepted idea that compromise is essential to civilized life, arguing instead that in any conflict between fundamental principles (such as truth, justice, or individual rights), compromise is not a solution—it is a moral surrender to the irrational and the wrong.

​Rand draws a sharp, controversial line: she contends that compromise is only legitimate in the realm of non-essentials (like the price of a car or scheduling a meeting time), but it becomes an act of moral treason when applied to core beliefs.

This is an online discussion group open to anyone interested in exploring challenging philosophical ideas. Whether you are a dedicated student of Objectivism, a philosophical critic of Rand, or simply curious about the nature of compromise, your critical participation is welcome. No prior expertise is required—only an open mind and a willingness to engage respectfully.

Is progress under attack? Explore Ayn Rand's radical critique of the forces she saw undermining reason, technology, and civilization itself.

In her powerful essay, "The Anti-Industrial Revolution," Ayn Rand lays bare what she identifies as a dangerous philosophical trend, arguing that certain ideologies of her time (and ours) are actively hostile to the very foundations of human progress: industry, technology, and the rational mind that enables them. Written as a fierce counter-argument to the burgeoning "New Left" and early environmental movements of the late 1960s and early 1970s, Rand contends that these movements are not merely seeking reform, but a fundamental return to a pre-industrial, "primitive" state.

This discussion group will delve into:

• Rand's definition of the "anti-industrial revolution": What are its core tenets and how does it manifest in social and political movements?
• The target of her critique: How does Rand dissect the motivations and arguments of those she identifies as "anti-industrial," particularly in relation to environmentalism and the New Left?
• The value of industrial civilization: What does Rand argue are the essential benefits and moral imperatives of technological advancement and industrial productivity?
• The philosophical roots of anti-progress: What underlying philosophical premises does Rand identify as driving the desire for a "primitive" society?
• Enduring relevance: Do Rand's warnings about the "anti-industrial revolution" still resonate in today's world, particularly concerning debates on technology, climate, and economic development?

Join us for a rigorous and thought-provoking exploration of an essay that remains remarkably pertinent in an age grappling with the future of human ingenuity and prosperity. All perspectives are encouraged for a dynamic and insightful exchange.

The full text of the recommended reading for the discussion can be found at the link below:

https://courses.aynrand.org/works/the-anti-industrial-revolution/

The audio of Ayn Rand delivering her lecture on this topic can also be found at the link below:

https://youtu.be/2miVMfYwDXY?si=5yJFftZeETNSV-qG