Pleasure and Happiness

Abstract

As we search for happiness, we realize how we fully share with humanity's many joys as well as sorrows.
What remains central is how to deal with changes -- psychologically, spiritually, economically, and
technologically. This paper examines the issue of the individual by Ayn Rand. This work raised questions
regarding Rand’s philosophy, Objectivism that places the highest value on the individual, with emphasis
on reason and freedom. In essence, the human person is considered to be responsible for one's rationality
based on one's capacity to choose; with happiness as the moral purpose of life. Following a brief
introduction of the theory that focused on the significant impact to the present laissez-faire capitalism, is
an analysis of Friedrich Nietzsche’s concept of the individual. This article made significant comparisons
between Rand and Nietzsche and their justifications of the moral person with special attention to the
Apollonian reality. A critical discussion on the implications of the Objectivist arguments to the Filipinos
follows by drawing attention to loob that encompassed Filipinos' humanity, personality, theological
perspective, and daily experiences. The work proceeds in defining Filipino indigenous thoughts to
appreciate culture and how it shapes Philippine history as a nation. More, it aspired to be in harmony
with others, and nature to be in union with God. The interior loob underscored the innate goodness; while
the holistic concept, the non-dual outlook of the world. Finally, the paper underpinned that despite the
prominence of modern science and technology, there is a concern for the inner and personal nature of
the self.