Why Does Rand Paul Admire Ayn Rand?

Rand Paul, the libertarian conservative, has often been seen as a fan of Ayn Rand, the philosopher and author of Fountainhead and Giant. While they share many political and economic views, their relationship is not without its complexities and criticisms. In this article, we will explore why Rand Paul admires Ayn Rand, the common and differing views, and the implications of their shared beliefs.

Shared Political-Economic Views

Rand Paul and Ayn Rand's ideological alignment lies primarily in their right-wing liberalism. This philosophy emphasizes individual freedom, free markets, and limited government intervention. They both advocate for a reduction in state interference and promote the concept of individual achievement and success. These shared views form the bedrock of their ideological closeness.

Differences in Ideology

While Rand Paul and Ayn Rand share a significant number of political-economic beliefs, they also have notable differences, most notably in their perspectives on religion and abortion.

Religion and Morality

Ayn Rand was an anti-theist who believed in a secular society devoid of religious influence. She criticized the moral and ethical values derived from religion, often viewing them as illogical and oppressive. On the other hand, Rand Paul, a moderate political Christian, places significant importance on religious beliefs and moral values derived from religious teachings. This divergence in their views on religion can create tension within their ideological alignment.

Abortion

Another area where their views diverge is on the issue of abortion. Ayn Rand, as a philosopher and writer, did not explicitly discuss the issue of abortion in her works, but her views on individual rights and determinism suggest a more permissive stance. However, her focus on individual freedom and the right to choose might align with pro-life principles. In contrast, Rand Paul has spoken out in support of the Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization decision, which protects the constitutional right of abortion. This stance represents a significant difference in how they handle moral and ethical issues related to individual rights.

Feckless Coward Criticism

Despite their shared ideological foundation, Rand Paul has faced criticism for not fully embodying Ayn Rand's principles. Critics often point out that he is a feckless coward, exhibiting political timidity and a lack of consistency in his stances. This criticism highlights the gap between their shared beliefs and Rand Paul's actions and decisions.

Lifestyle and Principles

Ayn Rand's philosophy places a significant emphasis on rationality, self-interest, and strength. She advocated for the cultivation of individual courage and the pursuit of personal goals without considering the dictates of others or societal norms. Rand Paul, while sharing many of these principles, has often been criticized for his lack of principled stances and perceived political cowardice. This inconsistency in his behavior and public persona can be seen as a challenge to the purity of Ayn Rand's philosophy.

Conclusion

While Rand Paul and Ayn Rand share many political and economic views, their relationship is not without its complexities. Their shared ideologies in right-wing liberalism provide a foundation for their admiration, while their differences in religious beliefs and stances on issues like abortion highlight the nuances of their perspectives. Rand Paul's approach to these issues, often seen as a feckless coward, diverges from the rigid principles espoused by Ayn Rand. Nonetheless, their shared ideological alignment remains a significant aspect of their relationship.