The Importance Of Individuality In Anthem By Ayn Rand

In Ayn Rand’s novella, Anthem, mankind is a philanthropic machine. To achieve a common goal, the brotherhood disregards their own personal ends and nobly collaborates for the greater good. For every decision comes from “collective thought” and every advancement, from joint action. However, one man in this machine malfunctions. Equality-72521. With an inquisitive nature, an innovative mind, and latent desire, Equality possesses the traits of a visionary who advocates for individuality. Every step Equality takes, is one away from the public-spirited system. Another towards personal identity. Each step is an internal struggle, due to the communist machine’s brainwash and eloquent reprogram of Equality’s instinctive mind. But nature tells Equality that his DNA is nothing save himself. Nature tells Equality that individuality is man’s birthright. Man’s one true victory. It is a self motivated animal, that not even the

His stature is grand, and his face, fascinating, with straight capable arms resting at his sides. He is, “not like that of our brothers” (123). His distinctive features, are however, not just arbitrary. Equality’s looks are unlike those surrounding him, in an effort to symbolize his inner being. While the others are slow, Equality is quick. Where others fail, Equality excels. His brain is just as different as his body. Normally, this brilliance would be considered an advantageous trait, but according to the rationale of socialism, superiority is putrid. Thus the government reprimands Equality by assigning him a position worth the most ignorant minded; a street sweeper. They however, hoist their own petard, in their plan to discomfit Equality. When, upon working, Equality discovers a secluded metro station he will later use to learn about things, “the scholars had no knowledge of ”(45). Here, Equality will be able to increase his cognition, which will gradually develop his initiative to fight against