How many of you think that "Atlas Shrugged" by Ayn Rand is relevant in these times?

What is happening today is very applicable to "Atlas Shrugged" I am in the United States where we see the "looters" growing in power all around us.

You cannot develop a business here without eventually dealing with Lawyers, accountants, beauracracies, fees, taxes etc.

If you are successful, no doubt someone will try to sue you to get a piece of your success.

Walmart is now a target of "Cuffy Meigs" seeking to grab some of their money.

Politicians are constantly increasing taxes and new fees on business owners.

Retail for the small mom & pop store is impossible in many parts of the country.

20% of the GDP of the U.S. now comes from the federal government.

Eminent domain is being abused to take private properties for corporations.

The constitution is now viewed as a quaint piece of history as our individual rights are diminished.

If you are a Hank Rearden in America, be prepared to share your success or be put out to rest.

In short. We are seeing EXACTLY what Ayn Rand described in "Atlas Shrugged"

Additional------

As far as people loving merit: Less and less here in the US. There is growing prejudice and jealousy against the rich. An "Us and Them" mentality has developed as the wealth gap widens. Corporations are viewed as Evil and corporate directors as the Devil himself.

P.S. A few comments:

Bianca: It wasn't a 60's book. But you're right, many people see it as dogma.

Kristy: You are right, she is full of BS in many aspects, preached atheism and lived a less than admirable life.

BUT - There are many many truisms that can be seen in the book, and it is an uncanny parallel to what is happening today.

Collectivism DID fail, but the idea is still being pushed on us. I mean C'mon, we live in an age where my tax money is used to subsidize someone else's Viagra!

I do believe it is applicable, and I do really like the book, and it does offer some good philosophy, however, I just really think that Ayn Rand is full of b.s.

I doubt anyone who needs to read it to get something from it that they need to make this place better won't put the effort into reading a 1000 page book.

Collectivism failed and that makes the book less relevant, because the enemy doesn't exist anymore.

Her ideas were too far to the right as well, we all live in a society and need to contribute to it, because we are all benefiting from it, so the book is no longer relevant.

Oh, please. This book has generated a cult-like following it does not deserve, IMHO. Think for yourself! Don't be a sheep. I know people who have changed their entire lives - NOT for the better - due to this book and it's just sad. The 60's are over. Deal with it.

You are right in someway.It resembles every period of time.Its a great book I ever read.