In 1962 Ayn Rand accepted an invitation to write a weekly column in the Los Angeles Times, and from events and controversies that have by now faded from the news, she was able to draw timeless lessons. The newspaper's editors asked Rand to begin the series by writing a brief introduction to Objectivism, to serve as a base of knowledge for future columns.  In this radio address, Rand reads aloud her first column and offers additional commentary. Rand lays out the tenets of her philosophy and argues that "America and capitalism are perishing for lack of a moral base."

Elaborating on points raised in her column, Rand indicates Objectivism's answers to basic questions of philosophy and addresses some common confusions, such as how to view emotions in relation to reason, the true nature of altruism and sacrifice, and the proper role of government and the use of physical force.