On April 25th, 2023, the Adam Smith Institute held its 10th annual lecture at Drapers’ Hall in London, where Lars Tvede gave a thought-provoking opening speech about the philosopher Ayn Rand and her perspective on the human mind. The lecture attracted a large audience of academics, students, and professionals, each interested in exploring Rand’s ideas about individualism, entrepreneurship, and the power of the mind.
During his speech, Tvede emphasized Rand’s belief that the mind is the most powerful tool that we possess as individuals. According to Rand, the human mind has the capacity to reason and think creatively, and it is this ability that enables us to achieve greatness in our lives. Tvede noted that Rand’s views were grounded in a fundamental respect for the individual and the unique talents and abilities that each individual possesses.
There is a fundamental conviction which some people never acquire, some hold only in their youth, and a few hold to the end of their days—the conviction that ideas matter… That ideas matter means that knowledge matters, that truth matters, that one’s mind matters…
Tvede also noted that Rand’s ideas about individualism and free markets were particularly relevant in today’s world, a world in which governments and other institutions often seek to impose their will on individuals. He argued that individuals should be empowered to make their own choices and to take responsibility for their own lives—and he argued that her ideas are especially relevant to entrepreneurs of our age.
The Adam Smith Institute’s 10th Annual Ayn Rand Lecture was a thought-provoking event that explored the philosopher’s ideas about individualism, free markets, and the power of our reason. Rand characterized the men of mind as heroes. Lars Tvede is himself an exceptional hero and his lecture was a testament to the ongoing influence of Rand’s philosophy and the enduring relevance of her ideas in our modern world. We are incredibly grateful to have had him open this year’s Ayn Rand Lecture!
