'The Return of the Primitive' By Ayn Rand

"The Return of the Primitive: The Anti-Industrial Revolution" by Ayn Rand is a collection of essays that critically examines the cultural and ideological shifts that Rand perceives as detrimental to individualism, reason, and progress in contemporary society. Published in 1971, this work reflects Rand's staunch defense of capitalism and her deep concern about the rise of collectivism and irrationalism.Rand's central thesis in "The Return of the Primitive" is that society has been regressing towards a primitive state, abandoning the values of reason, individualism, and technological advancement in favor of mysticism, tribalism, and environmentalism. Rand is highly critical of what she sees as a growing romanticization of nature and a rejection of industrialization. She argues that this anti-industrial sentiment is harmful to human progress and individual freedom.One of the key concepts Rand explores is the contrast between reason and mysticism. Rand contends that reason is the foundation of human progress and that mysticism, with its emphasis on faith and the supernatural, is a threat to rational thinking. She criticizes the countercultural movements of the 1960s for their embrace of mysticism and their rejection of reason. According to Rand, the New Left and other similar movements were promoting a return to a primitive, pre-industrial mindset where emotions and instincts are valued over rational thought.Rand also takes aim at collectivism and tribalism. She argues that these ideologies undermine individualism and personal responsibility. She sees the rise of collectivist movements as a rejection of the idea that individuals should be free to pursue their own self-interest and that they should not be sacrificed for the collective good. Rand contends that collectivism leads to the erosion of individual rights and freedoms, ultimately stifling human potential.In the essay "The Age of Envy," Rand delves into the concept of envy as a destructive force in society. She argues that envy, which she defines as resentment of others' success and a desire to bring them down to one's own level, is a driving force behind many anti-capitalist and collectivist ideologies. Rand believes that envy is a manifestation of a primitive, tribal mentality and that it is antithetical to the principles of individualism and capitalism. She warns against the dangers of a society that embraces envy, as it can lead to the erosion of property rights and the vilification of success.Furthermore, Rand explores the growing influence of environmentalism in "The Return of the Primitive." She criticizes the environmentalist movement for its romanticization of nature and its opposition to industrial progress. Rand argues that industrialization is not only compatible with environmental preservation but also essential for improving human living conditions. She sees environmentalism as another example of the rejection of reason and the embrace of irrational, anti-industrial ideologies.Throughout the book, Rand advocates for a return to the values of reason, individualism, and capitalism. She believes that these values are essential for human progress and individual happiness. Rand argues that the rejection of industrialization, reason, and individualism in favor of mysticism, collectivism, and environmentalism is a dangerous trend that must be resisted.In conclusion, "The Return of the Primitive: The Anti-Industrial Revolution" by Ayn Rand is a thought-provoking collection of essays that offers a scathing critique of the cultural and ideological shifts she sees as detrimental to human progress and individual freedom. Rand's defense of reason, individualism, and capitalism is at the core of her argument against the rise of mysticism, collectivism, and environmentalism in contemporary society. While her views are controversial and have been the subject of much debate, her work remains influential in the realms of philosophy and political thought, sparking important discussions about the role of reason and individualism in the modern world.