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.