On a recent driving trip down the East Coast of Florida, I was surprised and awakened to see the above billboard. Sure, I’ve seen the occasional “Who Is John Galt?” bumper sticker, and given the driver a knowing nod upon passing them, but I’ve never seen the perennial objectivist question committed to in such a big way. In a world where daily news of ongoing government encroachment on free market principles and increasing dis-incentives for individuals to work hard and create something of value, it’s easy to feel like we are living in the first few chapters of Atlas Shrugged.
Seeing this billboard filled me with curiosity and mystery, but somehow gave me hope. Who funded it? Is he a successful small business owner, entrepreneur, inventor? Why isn’t there a contact number or website for more info? Who was he hoping to influence, and to do what? These thoughts stayed with me throughout our trip and on the way back up, I made a point of pulling over to take a photo. Those who know, know — and will hopefully help to effect a change of course in our current trajectory. Those who don’t yet know, will hopefully be curious enough to investigate and draw their own conclusions using the power of their free mind.
Postscript: Just this morning while doing a little bit of Googling I learned that the gentleman who funded this sign, Craig Root, is indeed a successful small business owner. Turns out he founded and owns “Vista Outdoor Advertising” the outdoor advertising firm placing and operating this billboard. Per Root: “I’ve received only positive comments. Of course, only those of us who know the book and Ayn Rand would get the reference but it’s been great to rekindle the notion in our current atmosphere. I’ve also convinced some people to read the book just based on the sign. If 50 people read the book because of the billboard, that will meet my primary objective.” I hope his business booms and that current and oncoming tax structures don’t cause him to redirect his initiative.
I also hope some of our elected officials take a driving vacation down I-95 to Florida this summer, it’s beautiful this time of year.
This blog got me curious about the book, and I finished reading it about a week ago. Thanks for the post, the book is spot on to what could be our nations trajectory. Hope we don't stamp out the producers in the world!
Wow Brian !!
Thanks for sharing that. If I somehow helped one blog visitor to read “Atlas Shrugged”, I guess I've had an impact. Glad you enjoyed it and can see the eerie parallels with today's US situation.
Create value, and trust your SELF. you WILL be recognized!
http://www.whoisjohngalt.com
Saw this on the web.
Yes , that is a good site , and I had seen it prior, a little too focused on US politics, but still a good resource.
http://www.whoisjohngalt.com
Saw this on the web.
Yes , that is a good site , and I had seen it prior, a little too focused on US politics, but still a good resource.
Did you take that photo?
Dan – yes I did, I saw it on I95 on the way down to a Florida on a trip, and on the way back home, pulled over, hopped the interstate and snapped it. I have full resolution on my flickr if you would like it.
I read Atlas Shrugged in the Summer of 1964 between mt Sophmore and Junior years at the University of Southern California. It was the beginning of the Hippie movement and the Anti-war protests. This book helped chart the course for the remainder of my working and entrepreneural career. My four children were required to read it and to this day we discuss elements of the philosophy today when we can find time to get together.
Great book and its understanding makes for a satisfying and well grounded lif. When the truths start to become obvious, a much better understanding of exactly what is happening emerges.
Ron
Thank Ron for commenting, glad the book had a formative impact on your thinking as well.
LET CAPITALISM LIVE!!