Considered to be Ayn Rand’s “philosophical and artistic capstone,” Atlas Shrugged proves to be her most fictionally expressive piece on her philosophy known as objectivism. In his piece, Edward Younkins, aiming for a broader audience, delves into several levels of Rand’s “Bible of Objectivism” and its present importance. Being published around the same time as Atlas Shrugged’s semi-centennial anniversary, the recent restoration of appeal in the novel and flood of copies sold throughout the current economic crisis brands this illumination of Rand’s thoughts and beliefs applicable to the never-ending discussions about Rand’s part in the anti-communist movement in the United States. Those reading this collection to attain a new-or-improved understanding …show more content…
Nevertheless, this is where Younkins shortcomings are displayed in full spotlight. With an inclusion of such a wide array of topics pertaining to Atlas Shrugged, it is apparent why Younkins’ collection reads as over-reaching with a significant lack of consistency. Characteristic of many edited collections, readers and critics discover roughness in value and assimilation of the included essays, articles, etc. The afore-mentioned criticism is further highlighted due to the presence of dozens of pieces (thirty-six to be exact), which can-and-will portray a lack of cohesion throughout the entire collection. Although Atlas Shrugged is a substantial novel, in both length and ideas, which can allow for a wide selection of pieces in a collection such as Younkins, multiple pieces depict only a feeble tie to Atlas Shrugged, resulting in a muddled reader rather than an enlightened one. On the other hand, others occupied their pieces with internal arguments about Rand’s beliefs and individuals who have been illuminated by them. This subject matter will provide little benefit to readers trying to comprehend Ayn Rand based on her own expressions and no one