About the Atlas Shrugged Essay Contest
Eligibility and Prizes
- Open to all high school, college, and graduate students worldwide
- Top Prize: $10,000
- Second Prizes (3): $2,500
- Third Prizes (5): $500
Essay Requirements
- Essays must be written in English
- Word Count: Between 800 and 1,600 words
- Double-spaced format
Choose Your Essay Topic
Select one of the following three prompts about Atlas Shrugged and write an essay in response to it.
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Prompt #1
Explain Francisco's speech about money and how it serves the purpose of his speech. Discuss its application to our economic world today.
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Prompt #2
Explain John Galt's principle regarding the sanction of the victim and its role in the plot of the novel. Apply this principle to an issue or event from current events.
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Prompt #3
Discuss the bum's conception of morality in the diner scene and how the events of the novel address it. Explore what the novel suggests is right and wrong about this conception, focusing on Rearden's transformation.
Grading Criteria
Essays are judged on the student's ability to justify and argue their view, clarity, organization, understanding of the novel's philosophic meaning, and staying on topic.
Contest Timeline
Entry Deadline
November 6, 2023
Phase 1 Grading
November, 2023
First round of grading typically takes 3-4 weeks
Phase 2 Grading
December, 2023
Second round of grading typically takes 4-6 weeks
Phase 3 Grading
January, 2024
Final round of grading typically takes 2-3 weeks
Final Results Announced
February, 2024
Results revealed online via a special livestream event. Winners will also be notified via email.
Benefits of Participating
- Improve your ability to write and think effectively
- Compete against talented students from around the world
- Earn cash prizes for college and higher education
Testimonials
Read what past winners have to say about the contest:
- "Atlas Shrugged is truly a paradigm shifting book that causes one to reevaluate the way in which they see the world."
- "I read Atlas Shrugged years ago as a teenager, and it set me on an intellectual path of setting new ideas and values I could live my life by."
- "Participating in the Atlas Shrugged Essay Contest was an incredible opportunity to dive deep into Ayn Rand's philosophy and explore its relevance in today's society. It challenged me to think critically and articulate my ideas effectively."
- "Winning the Atlas Shrugged Essay Contest not only provided financial support for my education but also boosted my confidence in my writing abilities. It was a rewarding experience that I will always cherish."
- "The Atlas Shrugged Essay Contest pushed me to examine my own values and beliefs, and it encouraged me to engage in thoughtful discussions with fellow participants. It was an intellectually stimulating journey."
How to Participate
To participate in the Atlas Shrugged Essay Contest, follow these steps:
- Choose one of the three essay prompts provided.
- Read and familiarize yourself with Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand.
- Develop a clear thesis statement and outline for your essay.
- Write an original essay, adhering to the specified word count and format requirements.
- Proofread and revise your essay for clarity, coherence, and grammar.
- Submit your essay online before the entry deadline.
- Wait for the results to be announced in February 2024.
Additional Tips
- Thoroughly analyze the chosen prompt and ensure your essay addresses all its aspects.
- Support your arguments with evidence from Atlas Shrugged, using quotes and references.
- Show a deep understanding of the novel's philosophies and themes in your essay.
- Organize your essay logically, with a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.
- Proofread your essay multiple times to eliminate any spelling or grammatical errors.
- Seek feedback from teachers, mentors, or peers to improve your essay before submission.
Good luck with your participation in the Atlas Shrugged Essay Contest! It's an excellent opportunity to engage with Ayn Rand's ideas and showcase your writing skills.
