Trade vs. Power

Trade and power are the two fundamental alternatives in human relationships. This program explores that alternative as the specifically social-economic dimension of the contrast between producers and looters. This theme is reflected in Atlas Shrugged in the collapse of the economy as power gains the upper hand; and in the producers' and looters' respective goals and attitudes towards others.

This program, suitable for those new to Rand's ideas, covers:

1. Trade as the principle of freedom and justice
2. Plot implementation: The wreck of the economy, Galt Agonistes
3. Characterization: Rearden vs. Boyle
4. Clearest statement of the theme: Francisco's money speech, Rearden's trial speech, Galt's speech.
5. Buried riches: The generosity of the producers.

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NOTE: This program is a part of the "'Atlas Shrugged' as a Philosophical Novel" lecture series presented at The Atlas Society's 2006 Summer Seminar. Other lectures from the series can be found linked below:‍

• Producers vs. Looters and Parasites
• Reason vs. Anti-Reason
• The Pursuit of Happiness
• The Unity of Mind and Body