Philosophy club discusses ayn rand

Students and faculty listen to a lecture on Ayn Rand. Thomas Hansen/The Sentinel

NIC’s Philosophy Club hosted “Love, Hate, Know,” a lecture on Ayn Rand on Friday, featuring a guest speaker and discussion on the life and times of the controversial novelist and philosopher.

Nearly 20 students and faculty gathered in the Driftwood Bay room of the SUB to listen to Ed Kaitz, a philosophy instructor at NIC, talk about Rand’s philosophies, focusing on her unique philosophical system of objectivism.

Growing up in communist Russia, Rand eventually travelled to America, where she became a permanent U.S. resident and became active in politics and writing, fighting against the communist ideals of her upbringing. She is best known for her novels, “Atlas Shrugged” and “The Fountainhead,” both of which highlight the ideals of objectivism, a philosophy that rejects altruism and promotes living by one’s own effort.

Debate about the author’s ways of thinking is not uncommon, as Rand is known for her association with conservative and libertarian ideals, which prompted heated discussion among audience members.

Ed Kaitz lectures on Ayn Rand. Thomas Hansen/The Sentinel

“I really liked the fact that Kaitz could come in and talk about a controversial topic that actually most of the time you hear about, is pretty negative,” club president Joe Mitchell said. “Regardless of what I think your view is, I think it’s nice to hear somebody just informing people what the other side says about themselves. I think that’s cool.”

This was the club’s first event of the semester. Mitchell said he was happy with the turnout, especially considering the club only had five days to advertise.

As for future events, Mitchell said the club is planning a game night on Feb 20 and hinted at possible speakers from Gonzaga University and off-campus volunteer opportunities.

The club will also be attending the undergraduate philosophy conference at Pacific University, where four members of the club are submitting papers in hopes of being approved–a feat the club accomplished last semester.

“It’s kind of a big deal for our club,” Mitchell said.

Those who are interested in being members of the club were invited to present possible presentation ideas to the club that would spark group discussion.

The Philosophy Club meets Fridays at 1 p.m. in room 210 of Lee/Kildow Hall. General meetings usually involve discussions on various philosophers, social issues or ethical topics and sometimes feature guest speakers. Those interested can check the Facebook page, “North Idaho College Philosophy Club,” for more information and updates on future events.