Compromise In Ayn Rand's The Fountainhead

The concept of compromise has always been a fundamental idea of human Society. To achieve mutual goals, to end conflict, to pursue peace, compromise has been utilized to agree on terms that equally benefit both parties. Ayn Rand, creator of Objectivism and author of the philosophical novel The Fountainhead, views compromise differently than its face value definition. Society says that compromise is generally a settlement of a dispute by both sides making concessions; Rand reaffirms this ideal, though only in situations with “regard to concretes, or particulars, implementing a mutually accepted basic principle, that one may compromise.” In general, only compromises that are “moral” are rational. This poses a question-- What is Rand's definition

In other words, only the individual can make his or her own choices; only the person can truly decide what is best for him. This fundamental philosophy of the distinctiveness of character is made real in the life and sufferings of Howard Roark, architect. At certain times in his personal life and professional career, he was forced to make decisions-- these decisions ultimately demand one thing from him: his individual identity-- his moral compass,the only guide to true happiness. For example, when offered the option to return to Stanton Institute of Technology in exchange for drafting architectural designs that betrayed his vision, Roark chose to blaze his own trail rather than forfeit his true beliefs-- even when told by the Dean of Students that “we can only attempt, respectfully, to repeat [From the great masters of architecture]” (11). Roark’s best line through the whole encounter is simple but profound; “why?” (11). This question needs to be considered by all facing a dilemma jeopardizing their integrity of character: “why?” The saying goes that integrity is “doing the right thing even when nobody is watching.” The essential message of this line is correct; a person should choose to maintain their integrity, regardless of exterior opinion. In any situation, a person should determine their “why,” to