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Mission & Purpose

The Ayn Rand Institute

ARI fosters a growing awareness, understanding and acceptance of Ayn Rand’s philosophy, Objectivism, in order to create a culture whose guiding principles are reason, rational self-interest, individualism and laissez-faire capitalism­­ — a culture in which individuals are free to pursue their own happiness.

How? Our strategy, priorities and programs are informed by Rand’s distinctive view of what sets the direction of a society. It is not the latest election results or media celebrities but the philosophic ideas that shape men’s choices and actions.

Ayn Rand's Philosophy

To advance Objectivism, ARI focuses on areas that have a long-term multiplying impact on the direction of our culture — notably, education and policy debates.

The education system, from grade school to academia, conveys the basic ideas through which people try to make sense of their lives and the world. Engage students, educators, scholars — and you can achieve large scale and enduring influence.

Look closer at public policy, beyond sound bites and election cycles, and you’ll find fundamental moral ideas that frame crucial debates. Reframe those debates in line with the principles of rational egoism and individual rights — and you help lay the foundations of a free society.

Owner: ©Leonard Peikoff | Credit: Ayn Rand Archives

THE FOUNDING OF ARI

“The Ayn Rand Institute began operation on February 1, 1985. Its formation was due primarily to the efforts of philosopher Leonard Peikoff, Ayn Rand's legal and intellectual heir, and businessman Ed Snider, owner of the Philadelphia Flyers and other business enterprises. Dr. Peikoff provided the intellectual foundation, and Mr. Snider provided the original impetus and the business expertise. Both men wanted a base from which to advance the philosophy of Objectivism." (Impact, newsletter of the Ayn Rand Institute, Vol. 1, No. 1, Dec. 1985.)

PROGRAMS & INITIATIVES

ARI’S PROVEN IMPACT

Dive in to learn how ARI champions Rand’s exalted vision of the individual’s potential for happiness and achievement. Discover how ARI works to educate and empower a wide variety of audiences, from students, teachers and scholars to businessmen and policymakers. Since 1985, our programs and initiatives have achieved real impact.

EXPLORE ARI'S PROGRAMS

GET INVOLVED

Have Ayn Rand’s works and ideas given direction and urgency to your desire to make your world a better place in which to live? Across the country and around the world, people are turning to Rand’s philosophy for guidance in the struggle for freedom.

There are many ways that you as an individual can take part. ARI provides materials, support and more. See what others are doing individually and in concert with ARI. We welcome you to stand with us!

DISCOVER WAYS TO PARTICIPATE

Annual Report

Annual Report 2023 Cover

THE AYN RAND INSTITUTE IN 2023

The Ayn Rand Institute’s Annual Report includes an overview of 2023 initiatives.

READ THE REPORT

Events

OBJECTIVIST SUMMER CONFERENCE 2025

Learn more about Ayn Rand’s philosophy at the largest annual gathering of Ayn Rand enthusiasts

Learn More

Memorials

ATLANTIS LEGACY

Planned giving in honor of loved ones

Read Memorials

Suggested Course

Course

PHILOSOPHY: WHO NEEDS IT

What is philosophy? Why and how is it relevant to my life? In this 1974 address to West Point cadets, Ayn Rand argues that whether we realize it or not, all of us hold and act on philosophic ideas, and that philosophy is a crucial, practical need of human life.

Instructor
AYN RAND
Course Length
1 Lesson
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