Question

Objectivism also gives freedom to an individual as one aspect of self-interest. Thus, the answer given by the Objectivist spokesperson is well aligned with the philosophy of self-interest and freedom. Objectivists also believe reason as the basis for any information; a justifying reason as to why a person wants to help the poor would suffice to an Objectivist. Ethics associated with various aspects are devised to keep the balance in society and harmony among different communities and people. As Objectivism focuses mainly on the self-interest of an individual, most of the time, when one individual has to deal with various individuals in the society, one may not get chance to express his/her self-interest. Also, showing individual self-interest may not fit with other's self-interests, and this may create a conflict among individuals and unethical situations. Thus, Objectivism from this perspective looks opposite of ethics. Both the principles propounded by Ayn - 'Self-interest not only in what behavior is but also what it should be' and 'Capitalism through the performance of deeds by individuals who are self-interested.' These principles indicate the possible situation that Objectivism may sometimes lead to unethical conditions while dealing with multiple individuals with different self-interests.

Can an Objectivist discover a selfish reason to aid the poor? And, Can a hermit be ethical, by your standard?

Answer 1

Yes, an objectivist can discover a selfish reason to aid the poor. Objectivists strongly believe a justifying the poor would suffice. This means that an Objectivist who has the self-interest for being popular aide the poor. This is the selfish reason for the Objectivist to aid the poor. The objectivist have the intention of being popular and do not have any selfless aim to help the poor during their critical times. Thus, it is pertinent to say that all Objectivists are not with absolute self-interest hence they can also be selfish while aiding the poor.

Yes, a hermit can be ethical if the hermit is self-less in all aspects of life. Hermit is ethical if his intention is only to help the poor and his personal interests are priority than other interests. Only then the hermit is ethical. According to the Utilitarian theory, a hermit’s actions is ethical if it does greater good for greater number of people. Thus, a hermit is an ethical by my standards.

Note- If you like the answer, please provide an up-vote as it would be quite encouraging for me. Thank you.