Objectivism Theory and Practice
A Week in Galt's Gulch, June 28 - July 5, 2003

Registration Closed

"...Truly one of the most incredible experiences I’ve ever had. Thank you." – Chandler Kaiden "This was the intellectual high of the last 30 years of my life." –Gerald M. Biggers "Here’s a week of focus, fun and philosophy you won’t find outside Atlantis." –Steve Moses These were just a few of the enthusiastic responses from those who attended The Objectivist Center’s Summer Seminar last year. They echo hundreds of rave reviews we’ve received over the past thirteen years from participants who praise our annual conference for its matchless intellectual offerings and exciting social opportunities. On June 28, 2003, this annual “meeting of minds” continues…on the beautiful campus of Bentley College in the Boston suburb of Waltham, when the Center opens its fourteenth Summer Seminar.

»    Daily Schedule »    Participant section »    Registration Information »    Limited Sessions »    Student Info »    Advanced Seminar »    Exhibitor Info (17KB) »    Sponsors Dinner »    PDF Brochure [373KB]

What is the Summer Seminar?

It’s a week-long exploration of Ayn Rand’s philosophy of Objectivism, from its broadest applications to its most subtle implications, from the inspirational aspects of her fiction, to the logical architecture of her intellectual system.

It’s a place where you can take courses from top objectivist scholars…listen to provocative lectures on political and cultural topics… attend practical workshops in psychology, writing, acting, dancing, even physical fitness…and enjoy evening performances in the arts.

It’s a place where you’ll live in a close community of enthusiastic, talented men and women who share your ideas and values… where you’ll find new friends and forge lifelong relationships.

Finally, it’s the perfect summer getaway, on the doorstep of one of America’s great cities. Bentley College is just moments away from downtown Boston—“the Athens of America”—and its treasure trove of historic, cultural, and entertainment offerings.

I love that for a little while during the year I am surrounded with rational, active minds, open to really discuss and share ideas

—Catherine Ilson

Conference Life

It's almost impossible to convey the overall experience of the Summer Seminar to anyone who hasn't attended. "Take a very good year of your life and condense it into one week," participant Joe Duarte said at the close of last year's event. "That is what the seminar was like for me. The week overflows with intellectual stimulation and social discoveries."

The conference's foundation is an educational program offering fifty seven cutting-edge lectures, courses, and workshops. These cover a breathtaking range of topics, including philosophy, psychology, politics, culture, the arts, and personal applications of Objectivism—all presented by some of the finest scholars and most inspiring speakers you'll find anywhere.

"I love the concentration of intellectual horsepower," enthused 2002 participant Heather Demarest. Added Michael Huemer: "The seminar boasts constant intellectual discussion about almost any topic you might be interested in, at all hours of the day."

But educational presentations are only a part of the experience. Over the years, the Summer Seminar has evolved into something more: a cultural experience—an event where you'll discover what it means to live in a thriving Objectivist community. There's plenty of time for socializing, and abundant opportunities for recreation and entertainment on campus and in the surrounding area.

"What an experience to be part of a community of rational, passionate individuals!" declared Barry Kayton. Stephen Nahm agreed. "It's like coming back for a family reunion. When I first started coming to the seminar I was primarily getting intellectual nourishment. I now find the personal connections to be a more significant part of my experience here."

The fun begins on the first afternoon you arrive, with a special welcoming reception for newcomers. The Center's staff will greet you and outline what the week has in store. Immediately afterwards you'll join hundreds of fellow participants from all over the world at our opening day picnic, held on the campus grounds. It's your first opportunity to mingle, meet people, and—if you're a conference veteran—greet old friends.

That evening—and each night of the week—you can drop into the Common Room, the informal center of conference social life. Over refreshments, you'll get to know your fellow participants, question staff members and faculty, and debate issues raised in the day's presentations. Or in a nearby spot you can strum a guitar, organize a group sing-along, or stroll outside under the stars with new friends.

This week has been one of the best of my life. I feel refueled and ready to return to my home, my job, my friends, and my family with a better sense of who I am as an Objectivist and how I can improve each of these areas of my life.

—Samantha Johnston

While the morning schedule is filled with lectures, afternoon sessions include hands-on workshops, where you can learn new insights and practical skills. Or do you have a special skill, theory, or talent that you'd like to share? Each day, we set aside time and space for Participant-Sponsored Sessions, allowing you an open platform for your own presentations.

There's also plenty of free time for you to use the campus athletic and recreational facilities. And we leave Wednesday completely open for you to plan your own adventures in the Boston area.

Take your pick among its many riches. There's the Museum of Fine Arts, Symphony Hall, Fenway Park, and the Shubert Theater… world-class boutiques on Newberry Street, and bustling Faneuil Hall Marketplace… fresh seafood at dockside restaurants and authentic Italian cuisine in the North End…the famous bookstores of nearby Harvard Square. Take a relaxing ride on the elegant swan boats in the Public Gardens. Picnic on the Boston Commons. Visit gravesites of Revolutionary War heroes. Play with the dolphins at the New England Aquarium. Follow the "Freedom Trail" from Old North Church to the venerable battlegrounds of Lexington and Concord. Or watch dazzling fireworks over the Charles River.

On Thursday evening, the Center's top contributors gather for the elegant Sponsors Dinner, an annual celebration of the Center's achievements. And the week comes to an exciting conclusion on Friday night—Independence Day—at our gala Closing Banquet and Dance. It's time to unwind, dress up, feast on great food, and dance the night away.

With such a wide variety of talks and speakers, and an unforgettable social atmosphere, the Summer Seminar is a can't miss.

—Jason Walker

From the opening picnic to the closing banquet, The Objectivist Center's capable staff does everything imaginable to make the Summer Seminar a week you'll always hold dear in memory. And our participants do.

For some, like Ilana Dover, it's "an intellectual feast, served in the company of people I would love to have as my close friends and business associates." For many, the Seminar has become a tradition, a much-anticipated high point in their year. "It exceeded my expectations," said Kenneth DePrizio. "I am definitely coming next year." Said Jackie Hazelton: "I am amazed every year at how much fun it is. I look forward to returning again and again."

So discover for yourself what has made The Objectivist Center's annual Summer Seminar a "must" for hundreds of admirers of Ayn Rand and her provocative ideas. Give yourself a summer vacation unlike any you have ever known. Join us at Bentley College next June 28 for a thrilling week of ideas and inspiration, fun and fellowship.