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    In Defense of Selfishness by Peter Schwartz Summary

    In Defense of Selfishness
    Peter Schwartz
    3.86 (216 Reviews)
    PhilosophyPoliticsPsychology
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    Overview of In Defense of Selfishness

    "In Defense of Selfishness" boldly challenges our moral compass, arguing that altruism isn't virtuous but destructive. Championed by Objectivists like John Allison, it poses a provocative question: What if putting yourself first isn't selfish - but the foundation of a just society?

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    Best quote from In Defense of Selfishness

    “

    Altruism demands servitude-that you become the property of others.

    ”
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    What if everything you've been taught about morality is backwards? Consider the wealthy entrepreneur who donates millions to charity-praised as virtuous. Now consider the same person building a company that employs thousands and creates products millions voluntarily purchase. Which action truly serves humanity? Most of us would instinctively praise the first while viewing the second with suspicion. This instinct, according to a controversial philosophical argument, reveals how deeply we've internalized a moral framework that celebrates sacrifice over achievement, need over merit, and servitude over sovereignty. The radical claim at stake: altruism-long held as morality's crown jewel-actually represents its corruption, while selfishness, properly understood, offers the only rational foundation for human flourishing.

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    The Paternalistic State

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