Leonard Peikoff is an American philosopher, author, and former student and associate of famed philosopher Ayn Rand. He is best known for his scholarly work in Objectivism, a philosophy developed by Rand that emphasizes the importance of reason, individualism, and the pursuit of self-interest.
Peikoff was born on October 15, 1933, in Winnipeg, Canada. He became interested in philosophy at a young age and pursued his studies at New York University, where he was introduced to the ideas of Ayn Rand. Peikoff became a devoted follower and spent several years studying under Rand's guidance, eventually becoming her chosen intellectual heir.
As an expert on Objectivism, Peikoff has written extensively on the subject, including his seminal work "Objectivism: The Philosophy of Ayn Rand" (1991). In this book, Peikoff meticulously explores the philosophical foundations of Objectivism, providing a comprehensive analysis of its metaphysics, epistemology, ethics, politics, and aesthetics.
Beyond his scholarly work, Peikoff has also delivered lectures and seminars on Objectivism and its application to various aspects of human life. He has been a prominent figure in the Objectivist movement, contributing to its intellectual development as well as promoting and educating others about the philosophy.
Leonard Peikoff's contributions to Objectivism have played a significant role in its understanding and dissemination. His work has helped to solidify and expand upon Ayn Rand's original ideas, making him an influential figure in the realm of philosophy.
