The Skeptics Society & Skeptic magazine

Michael Shermer wrote this article while researching cults. He is not the first to point out the cult-like qualities of Ayn Rand and her “inner circle” of loyal followers. And, it is certainly nothing like Scientology or other cults that exploit and use other people. But, as you shall see there are enough links to the list of cult characteristics to give one pause. Herein, Shermer analyzes the behavior, attitudes and personality egos of Rand and her followers (not the veracity or validity of her ideas, which must stand or fall on their own regardless of her behavior).