Objectivist Newsletter, Volume 2, 1963

The articles in The Objectivist Newsletter were written over forty years ago, but even when the subject is not philosophy, Ayn Rand’s philosophical perspective on the issues gives her essays a timelessness and relevance transcending the details of their day. For example, her article “‘Extremism,’ or The Art of Smearing,” extracts a powerful epistemological lesson concerning a widespread misuse of concepts . . . from the speeches at the 1964 Republican National Convention. Many of the Newsletter essays were later anthologized, but many essays and other items were not and are unavailable in any other format. These include a number of book reviews and answers to philosophical questions from readers. In addition, aficionados of Rand’s philosophy will find it fascinating to peruse certain regular features of the Newsletter. There are occasional editorial reports on the spread of Objectivism in the culture and on college campuses. The “Objectivist Calendar” lists upcoming events such as lectures and TV and radio appearances by Rand and her associates. While such items are undoubtedly dated, they nevertheless offer a glimpse into the history of Objectivism as an intellectual movement.