The Morality of Capitalism

By Eric Daniels
Recorded May 22, 2008

Despite capitalism's enormous success in producing material abundance and political freedom, it faces a crisis—one that may lead to its demise. Capitalism is perishing because its supposed defenders lack a real defense.

In this lecture, Eric Daniels explores the most common arguments in favor of capitalism. He finds that they all break down in the face of the popular argument that capitalism is immoral and destructive—because it is selfish. Dr. Daniels explains that only Ayn Rand’s crucial insight—that capitalism is the only moral social system because it is based on "the virtue of selfishness"—can truly defend capitalism. He illustrates the need for a moral, and not just an economic, defense of capitalism.

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The Morality of Capitalism—lecture only (53 mins.)

The full-length recording of this event can also be purchased on DVD and audio CD from the Ayn Rand Bookstore.

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