Why It Might Seem Like No Women are Fans of Ayn Rand

The perception that no women are fans of Ayn Rand—particularly from The Fountainhead and Atlas Shrugged—is a common misconception. This ostensiblyonnéed perception can stem from a variety of factors, including societal norms, philosophical differences, and the manner in which Rand’s work is oftentimes presented.

The Romanticized Rape and Its Impact

The doctrine of "romanticized rape" in Rand's work has been a significant point of criticism. Many argue that the portrayal of such themes can be off-putting to a majority of women. In the UK, for instance, the gender ratio for Rand’s fan base is heavily skewed towards men. This may be attributed to the idea that women are raised in a more "soft" environment as compared to men, where emotional and nurturing qualities are prioritized. While parents may go to great lengths to soften and protect their daughters, this softer upbringing can sometimes clash with the more rational, often harsh realities portrayed in Rand’s philosophy.

Objectivism and Rationality

Objectivism requires practitioners to be rational, and this is more naturally aligned with historically male upbringing. Men, due to their societal conditioning, are more prone to being rational. This raises the question: Are girls and boys truly being raised differently, or are parents, particularly fathers, often overly lenient when it comes to disciplining their daughters?

Counterarguments and Support for Rand

It would be misleading to assume that no women appreciate Ayn Rand. In fact, there are numerous women who not only admire her work but also actively engage in studying and teaching her philosophy. For example, Dr. Tara Smith at the University of Texas at Austin and Dr. Shoshana Milgram Knapp at Virginia Tech are prominent academics dedicated to Rand’s philosophy. Additionally, many women hold significant roles at the Ayn Rand Institute (ARI) and are members of its board of directors.

The Objectivist Conference (OCON) exemplifies the wide-ranging support for Rand’s philosophy, with a substantial number of female speakers and attendees. For instance, during a recent conference, a panel of three students who had been helped by ARI programs were all women, indicating a strong female presence. Furthermore, many young women are actively involved in STRIVE, a student Objectivist group, indicating a vibrant community of female supporters.

Gender Bias and Misunderstandings

Many women might be deterred from embracing Rand due to perceptions of her work as an anti-feminist. Indeed, some who identify with the feminist movement argue that society should impose active restrictions on male behavior towards women. However, Rand and her philosophy might not be as anti-feminist as commonly believed. Critics may have a distorted view based on initial impressions. Titles like Atlas Shrugged might lead to a superficial understanding of Rand's views on selfishness and individualism. It is crucial to engage with her work and form a deeper understanding rather than being swayed by misperceptions.

Conclusion: A Diverse Support Base

It is essential to recognize that the perception that no women are fans of Ayn Rand is largely unfounded. Women across various fields and backgrounds are actively engaged in supporting and studying Rand's philosophy. Whether through academic involvement, institutional leadership, or community engagement, women are significant contributors to the Objectivist movement. By dispelling stereotypes and encouraging a critical engagement with Rand's work, a more inclusive and nuanced appreciation of her philosophy can be fostered.