Spring 2011 Editor's Desk, The Atlas Society | Ayn Rand, Objectivism, Atlas Shrugged

by Sherrie Gossett

Spring 2011 -- It’s here: April 15 is the date for release of the much-awaited Atlas Shrugged movie, bank-rolled and tirelessly spearheaded by entrepreneur John Aglialoro, a trustee of The Atlas Society which publishes this magazine. In this issue we feature two articles about the movie: an interview with screenwriter Brian O’Toole (page 12) and a sidebar interview with TNI’s own David Kelley who served as a script advisor (page 17).

In one memorable scene from the movie, entrepreneur Hank Rearden explains why he won’t give up his company: “Because it’s mine.” We find the same gritty and admirable determination animating the hard-working townsfolk of Olive Hill, Kentucky, which recently experienced a ravaging flood (“A River Ran Through It,” page 56). Writer Sarah Perry returns home to bring us this moving story of Kentuckians resilient and proud, proud of what they’ve poured their lives into (homes, shops, each other) and proud of what they’ve already overcome. Despite tragedy, many choose to stay. Must the sweet always come with the bitter? Does the faith of the townspeople sweeten the bitter waters of their Marah experience (as in the book of Exodus)?

David Kelley and Ed Hudgins look closer at issues of faith and reason in this issue’s theme section “Beyond Belief” (page 34). Does an objective standard for morality exist? Does Islam really need a Reformation? You’ll also get to travel, with writer Hugo Schmidt, behind the scenes of “The Amazing Meeting” in London. Special thanks to contributing editor William R Thomas who oversaw this issue's theme section.

From working on the flight crew for a Saudi prince, to owning a booming business which customizes large jets for heads of state and celebrities, entrepreneur Steve Walton is flying high (page 10). Risk is a part of his DNA, he explains.

On page 20 you’ll meet another entrepreneur “living the dream”—French chef and entrepreneur Yoanne Magris. You’ll marvel at this woman’s productivity and you’ll be inspired by her fulfilled life. How does she fit so much into one day? Photojournalist Daniella Zalcman, who also living her dream, documents one of Magris’ colorful days in this “24/7” photo essay.

In our “Library” section: William R Thomas reviews an important book, The Logical Leap: Induction in Physics (page 74). This book is important not only for its contents but also for the controversy that has followed in its wake. In a sidebar article Thomas provides a much-needed analysis of that controversy. In another sidebar David S. Ross weighs in on related matters of quantum mechanics.

I hope that this issue—through the stories told and through the expressed talents of storytellers like Perry and Zalcman—will inspire you to work hard, persevere, to forge ahead despite circumstances, and to take the necessary risks in 2011 in order reach more of your dreams and your ideal life.