This is my second post on love and philosophy, and honestly, who am I? Writing about philosophy now? Am I having an existential transformation or just fooling everyone with a convincing act? I’ll leave that for you to decide, dear reader. But buckle up, because we’re diving into the world of Randian heroes. I’ve sorted them into 4 categories for your reading pleasure:

• Randian Ideal,
• Randian Human,
• Anti-Randians, and
• The Antagonists

Each character is a hero in their own right, crafted with purpose by Rand herself. Through them, we catch glimpses of Rand’s own essence.

Introduction

Ayn Rand’s philosophy does not enjoy widespread popularity among mainstream figures. In an interview, Barack Obama acknowledged that while the allure of individualism might be strong, it fails to provide a sustainable or compassionate framework for governing society. It’s worth noting that Obama, a Nobel Peace Prize recipient(given in the hope of not starting one more war), often criticized Randian ideals publicly. Despite this, one might speculate that even he, deep down, might fantasize about embodying a Randian hero. Such is the compelling influence of Rand’s ideas.

Who is a Randian Hero?

Ayn Rand developed a philosophical system rooted in 3 foundational principles:

• Objectivism,
• Individualism and
• Productive Achievement in the pursuit of Personal Happiness.

Individuals often embody these principles by demonstrating rationality and integrity in various aspects of life. They are productive, possess high self-esteem, and operate independently, making decisions based on their own logical deductions and analysis. They find purpose and commitment in every action. Thus, we need not look far to find Randian heroes—they are next to us, around us, and within us.

Classifying Randian Heroes

In my view, every character in a Randian novel exemplifies heroic qualities. When they take the stage, they excel in their respective domains. For the purpose of this discussion, I will categorize them into 4 groups:

• Randian Ideal,
• Randian Human,
• Anti-Randians, and
• The Antagonists

This post will explore these categories and the attributes of some or all of these characters.

Randian Ideal

Within the tapestry of Ayn Rand’s literary universe, four illustrious figures stand as paragons of the Randian Ideal. While more characters exist, my acquaintance extends to these remarkable protagonists across three of her novels. What distinguishes them as embodiments of this ideal? Their very essence transcends the mundane; they are luminaries of thought and deed, defying the shackles of convention and uniformity. Through unparalleled brilliance and unyielding determination, they carve paths untrodden and forge destinies unbound by societal constraints. Their mere presence bestows an aura of elevation upon those around them, inspiring greatness in others through their unwavering commitment to their own values. They stand as beacons of enlightenment and aspiration, guiding the seekers of truth and individualism towards the radiant shores of self-realization.

Howard Roark

In the realm of extraordinary individuals, there exists an architect whose vision defies convention. His unyielding dedication to his craft, coupled with an uncompromising integrity, sets him apart. He builds not for approval, but to manifest his unique vision, standing resilient against a world bent on conformity.

Dagny Taggart

A relentless leader of industry navigates the steel veins of a crumbling society. Her elegance is matched only by her indomitable will. Through sheer determination and brilliance, she strives to uphold the standards of excellence amidst mediocrity, her spirit an unflagging beacon in the encroaching darkness.

John Galt

In the shadows, a philosopher-engineer silently orchestrates a revolution of the mind. His genius is matched by an unyielding moral code, calling forth the brightest minds to join him in a sanctuary of reason and innovation. He is the invisible hand, guiding those who seek to live for their own sake, igniting a fire of independence that cannot be extinguished.

Dominique Francon

Enigmatic and alluring, embodies a paradox of destruction and devotion. Her beauty is matched by a fierce intellect, tearing down the false idols of society while cherishing the sublime heights of human potential. She is both critic and muse, elevating the hero she loves while despising the world that fails to appreciate him.

Randian Human

In the Ayn Rand’s literary universe, Randian heroes aspire to embody the lofty principles of the Randian Ideal. Through their trials and tribulations, Rand casts a radiant spotlight upon these ideals, illuminating them even amidst the shadows of their shortcomings and vulnerabilities. It’s akin to the paradox of preachers who espouse virtues they themselves may struggle to fully realize a pursuit both noble and profoundly human. They endeavor with all their might, yet often find themselves faltering along the arduous path of self-realization.

Steven Mallory

A talented sculptor whose encounter with Roark leads to a significant turning point in both their lives. Mallory’s artistic integrity and his struggles against societal norms provide a poignant subplot in the novel.

Catherine Halsey

Peter Keating’s fiancée who represents the societal expectations placed on women during the time period. Her character arc explores themes of ambition, identity, and the pursuit of happiness in a male-dominated world.

Henry Cameron

A mentor to Howard Roark, Cameron is a seasoned architect who embodies the struggle against societal conformity. Despite his eventual decline, his influence on Roark’s development as an architect is profound.

Hank Rearden

Rearden is a steel magnate and inventor of a revolutionary metal alloy. He represents the industrialist hero, struggling against government intervention and societal moochers.

Francisco d’Anconia

He is a copper tycoon who deliberately ruins his business to protest against the collectivist policies of the government, while secretly supporting Galt’s strike.

Anti-Randians

They are the anti randians with opposing values and goals of the Randian Ideals and representing various forms of collectivism, corruption, and mediocrity. Some notable antagonists include

Guy Francon

Dominique’s father and a prominent figure in the architectural world, Guy Francon represents the old guard of traditional architecture. He embodies conformity to societal norms and represents the establishment that opposes Howard Roark’s innovative designs.

Ellsworth Toohey’s Followers

While Ellsworth Toohey himself is not included in this list, his followers and acolytes who advocate for collectivism and mediocrity serve as antagonistic forces against Roark’s individualism and integrity.

The Architectural Establishments and the Homes Committe Members

The collective body of architects, critics, and businessmen who uphold conventional architectural styles and oppose Roark’s innovative designs can be seen as antagonists. They represent the forces of conformity and resistance to change within the architectural profession. Their rejection of Roark’s vision symbolizes the broader societal resistance to individualism and innovation.

Orren Boyle

As the president of Associated Steel, Orren Boyle epitomizes the collusion between government and industry. He relies on government favors and regulations to stifle competition and maintain his company’s dominance, resorting to sabotage and unethical practices to undermine his rivals.

Wesley Mouch

Initially portrayed as an economic advisor to the government, Wesley Mouch becomes increasingly influential as the story progresses. He embodies the bureaucratic mindset, advocating for government intervention and regulation while manipulating policies to benefit himself and his cronies.

Lillian Rearden

The wife of Hank Rearden, Lillian represents the forces of manipulation and emotional blackmail. She resents her husband’s success and integrity, seeking to control him through deception and manipulation. Her actions undermine Rearden’s confidence and contribute to his internal conflict.

Dr. Floyd Ferris

A government scientist and propagandist, Dr. Ferris embodies the intellectual corruption of the state. He manipulates scientific research and disseminates propaganda to justify government control and undermine individual achievement, serving as a tool of the authoritarian regime.

The Antagonists

Ayn Rand intricately crafted 3 characters, each embodying a spectrum of qualities diametrically opposed to her philosophy. Through their divergent paths and contrasting personas, she elevates her ideals and heroes to luminous heights. These characters, though seemingly ancillary, are indispensable counterparts to Roark, Galt, and Dagny Taggart. Their presence is not merely peripheral; rather, it is integral to the realization and illumination of Rand’s profound vision. Without them, the audience’s understanding of her ideals would remain incomplete, their significance woven intricately into the very fabric of her narrative cosmos.

Peter Keating

While initially portrayed as an antagonist to Roark, Keating’s journey throughout the novel reveals moments of internal conflict and self-discovery. His eventual realization of the emptiness of his pursuit of success and his acknowledgment of Roark’s integrity demonstrate a heroic transformation. His character development and initial formation are crucial to understanding the themes of the novel and the magnifiscence of Howard Roark. Unlike Roark, who is driven by a passion for architecture itself, Keating is motivated by the desire for recognition and status. He used Machiavillian tactics to advance his career, flatters and ingratiates himself with influential figures. His relationship with both the women of his life are built on a single pillar called fakeness.

Ellsworth Toohey

Toohey, as the antagonist of the story, possesses qualities that can be seen as heroic from his perspective. He is fiercely committed to his ideology and manipulates others to achieve his vision of collectivism. While his actions are antagonistic, his unwavering dedication to his cause is noteworthy.

James Taggart

The president of Taggart Transcontinental, James Taggart embodies incompetence, mediocrity, and moral corruption. He represents the epitome of crony capitalism and nepotism, using his familial connections to maintain power and influence while driving the railroad company into decline.

Gail Waynand

& then comes Gail Waynand, Is he a Randian Ideal or an Antagonist? I do not know. Maybe that is when Ayn Rand becomes immortal. Gail deserves his own section in this analysis.

Gail a complex character from Ayn Rand’s novel The Fountainhead. While he exhibits some traits of a Randian hero, he also embodies characteristics that set him apart from the primary archetype Rand champions. Here’s a closer examination

Gail Wynand as a Randian Hero

Wynand rises from the slums to become a powerful newspaper mogul, exemplifying the Randian ideal of the self-made individual who achieves success through hard work and determination. He possesses immense strength, ambition, and an unyielding will to achieve his goals, qualities admired in Randian heroes. Wynand recognizes and admires Howard Roark’s architectural genius and integrity, indicating his appreciation for true talent and individual achievement.

Departures from the Randian Ideal

Unlike Rand’s ideal heroes, Wynand compromises his values to gain power and influence, using his newspaper to pander to public opinion rather than uphold the truth. This is in stark contrast to Howard Roark, who never sacrifices his principles. Wynand’s power is ultimately dependent on the whims of the masses, a vulnerability that Rand’s heroes avoid by maintaining independence from societal approval. His eventual downfall comes from his realization that he has betrayed his own values by catering to the lowest common denominator, a betrayal Rand’s heroes would never commit.

Conclusion

This post is all about exploring the characters of Ayn Rand’s novels where I find Gail Waynand more human than the rest. Gail is a tragic figure who embodies both the potential and the pitfalls of human ambition. He shares many qualities with Randian heroes but ultimately serves as a cautionary example of what happens when one compromises one’s values for power and acceptance. In this sense, while Wynand is not a Randian hero in the purest sense, his character enriches Rand’s exploration of her philosophy by illustrating the consequences of failing to uphold one’s integrity.