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not do so because they were persuaded by a theoretical argument. They will do so because they will perceive real-world uses for abstract ideas. This essay is addressed to all intellectuals, whatever their degrees of practicalityfor intellectuals can be persuaded by theory. I urge them to look outward and see how they might use their minds to possess, control, and employ elements of the external reality.

If you are an intellectual and you flourish, you need not wait to present a brilliant theory to convince others of the value of your approach. The others will see this valueconcretely represented. They will come to you and ask, "What is your method?" And thenonly thenwill you be able to effectively convey to them elements of your theory.

Hence, do not acquire truth for its own sake. When you study history, ask how you can improve your own life by following history's lessons. When you study philosophy, make sure that your studies help you create what Ayn Rand termed "a philosophy for living on Earth." When you pursue mathematics, think of commercial and technical uses for the mathematics you pursue. When you study science, never forget technology. There are three components to the pursuit of truth; you cannot have the third without the first two, but you also cannot have much of a life without the third. Survive and flourish by acting; act to magnify yourself before you explicitly endeavor to improve the world. Then you will not only improve the world; you will win it.

Learn more about this author, G. Stolyarov II.
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