Objectivist vs. Subjectivist

Attribute	Objectivist	Subjectivist
Epistemology	Believes in objective reality and reason as the means of knowledge	Believes in subjective experiences and emotions as the means of knowledge
Ethics	Believes in rational self-interest and individual rights	Believes in personal values and moral relativism
Metaphysics	Believes in objective reality and the existence of absolutes	Believes in subjective reality and the absence of absolutes
Politics	Advocates for laissez-faire capitalism and limited government	Advocates for individual freedom and autonomy

Definition of Objectivism and Subjectivism

Objectivism is a philosophical system developed by Ayn Rand that emphasizes the importance of reason, individualism, and self-interest. Objectivists believe that reality exists independent of our consciousness and that individuals should pursue their own happiness as the highest moral purpose. Subjectivism, on the other hand, is a philosophical position that asserts that reality is dependent on our perception and interpretation. Subjectivists believe that truth and morality are subjective and can vary from person to person.

Epistemology

Objectivists hold that reason is the only means of acquiring knowledge and understanding reality. They believe in the existence of objective truths that can be discovered through logic and observation. Objectivism rejects faith, emotion, and mysticism as valid sources of knowledge. Subjectivists, on the other hand, argue that knowledge is subjective and influenced by individual experiences and perspectives. They believe that truth is relative and can vary depending on the observer.

Ethics

Objectivist ethics is based on the principle of rational self-interest. Objectivists believe that individuals should pursue their own happiness and well-being as their highest moral purpose. They reject altruism and self-sacrifice as virtues, arguing that individuals should prioritize their own values and goals. Subjectivist ethics, on the other hand, emphasize the importance of individual autonomy and personal values. Subjectivists believe that morality is subjective and that individuals should act according to their own beliefs and desires.

Politics

Objectivists advocate for a political system based on individual rights, limited government, and free-market capitalism. They believe that individuals have the right to live their lives as they see fit, free from coercion or interference. Objectivists argue that capitalism is the only moral social system because it respects individual rights and rewards individual achievement. Subjectivists, on the other hand, may have a variety of political beliefs depending on their individual values and perspectives. Some subjectivists may support socialism or other forms of collectivism, while others may advocate for individual freedom and limited government.

Metaphysics

Objectivism holds that reality exists independent of our consciousness and that it is governed by objective laws. Objectivists believe in the existence of an objective reality that can be understood through reason and logic. Subjectivism, on the other hand, argues that reality is subjective and dependent on our perception and interpretation. Subjectivists believe that reality is shaped by individual experiences and perspectives, and that there is no objective reality independent of our consciousness.

Aesthetics

Objectivist aesthetics emphasize the importance of art as a reflection of human values and ideals. Objectivists believe that art should portray the world as it could and should be, inspiring individuals to strive for greatness. Objectivist aesthetics value realism, romanticism, and idealism in art, rejecting abstract and avant-garde styles. Subjectivist aesthetics, on the other hand, argue that art is subjective and that its value is determined by individual taste and interpretation. Subjectivists believe that art can be anything that evokes an emotional response, regardless of its form or content.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Objectivism and Subjectivism are two contrasting philosophical systems that differ in their views on reality, knowledge, ethics, politics, metaphysics, and aesthetics. Objectivism emphasizes reason, individualism, and self-interest, while Subjectivism asserts that reality is subjective and dependent on individual perception. Both philosophies have their own strengths and weaknesses, and individuals may be drawn to one or the other based on their own values and beliefs.