Ayn Rand: an introduction

Few 20th century intellectuals have been as influential - and controversial - as the novelist and philosopher Ayn Rand.

Her thinking still has a profound impact, particularly on those who come to it through her novels, 'Atlas Shrugged' and 'The Fountainhead' - with their core messages of individualism, self-worth, and the right to live without the impositions of others.

Even though ignored or scorned by some academics, traditionalists, progressives, and public intellectuals, she remains a major influence on many of the world's leading legislators, policy advisers, economists, entrepreneurs and investors.

Why does Rand's work remain so influential?