What is philosophy — and how is it relevant to my life? Ayn Rand answered these questions in her address to the senior class of the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1974.

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Rand challenges the idea that philosophy belongs only in the ivory tower. Instead she argues that, whether we realize it or not, we all hold and act on philosophic ideas — and philosophy is a crucial, practical need of human life.

This illustrated audio lecture is a great starting point for those new to philosophy or to Rand’s ideas. The talk became the lead essay in Rand’s book Philosophy: Who Needs It.

Lesson Outline:

1. INTRODUCTION: A SHORT STORY

2. WHAT IS PHILOSOPHY?

3. PHILOSOPHY AS INESCAPABLE AND INDISPENSABLE

4. WHY STUDY PHILOSOPHY?

5. A PERSONAL MESSAGE TO WEST POINT GRADUATES

Suggested Readings: Philosophy: Who Needs It, Atlas Shrugged.