March 8–10, 2024 | Amsterdam

AynRandCon is an annual conference where the best young minds come together to explore Ayn Rand’s ideas.

Ready for an intellectual adventure? AynRandCon-Europe 2024 is a unique opportunity to deepen your understanding of Objectivism, where you’ll connect with like-minded individuals, engage in profound philosophical discussions, and participate in an intimate gathering that fosters growth and a shared passion for Objectivism, including:

A chance to explore life-changing ideas in an atmosphere of growth and camaraderie
Unparalleled access to approachable, enthusiastic lecturers for meaningful conversations about the concrete applications of Objectivism
Opportunities to easily connect with others who share fundamental values and apply Objectivist ideas every day in their lives

Designed for students of Objectivism ready to take the next step on their journey, AynRandCon-Europe will give you a chance to:

Meet Ayn Rand University faculty, including prominent Objectivist intellectuals such as Yaron Brook, Onkar Ghate, Nikos Sotirakopoulos, and Aaron Smith

Talk with current ARU students about their experiences studying Objectivism at ARU

Learn more about pursuing an intellectual career in Objectivism

“It’s like being in the Valley. It’s wonderful. I think coming away from it, I’ll know that there are real-life Objectivists out there . . . that beyond just the pages of The Fountainhead and Atlas Shrugged, there are real people in the modern day that are practicing this.”

“It’s shown me, actually, ways in which things that I have wanted to do for a long time are possible. I see a clearer path, and I can’t express how grateful I am. It’s truly life changing.”

“I found it’s very rare that you can have such intellectual intensity be effortless as well . . . . This experience of joy and connection and productivity really is something I will try to keep up when I go back to Germany.”

“I am beyond excited to experience the marketplace of ideas with a group of like-minded individuals.”

“I have had the opportunity to meet . . . a myriad of amazing people—bright, youthful minds with goals, ambitions and drives to achieve them. These individuals have improved my outlook on life immensely.”

“For the incredible experience I have had, all that it has meant to me, and all that I hope to use it to kindle a brighter future for myself and my convictions—thank you.”

“The lectures have been insightful, the people I’ve met brilliant and kind, and—I hope—the community here permanent. This was truly, in a not-kitsch manner, a soul-nourishing experience.”

Dr. Yaron Brook

Host, Yaron Brook Show

Dr. Brook is a prominent author and speaker who uses Ayn Rand’s philosophy to illuminate crucial cultural and political issues.

Dr. Onkar Ghate

Senior Fellow,
Ayn Rand Institute

Dr. Ghate has spent two decades leading ARI’s efforts to educate students in Ayn Rand’s philosophy.

Dr. Nikos Sotirakopoulos

Director,
Ayn Rand Institute Europe

Dr. Sotirakopoulos is a social scientist who helps students understand the history of today’s most influential political ideas, such as Critical Race Theory.

Dr. Aaron Smith

Fellow and Instructor,
Ayn Rand Institute

Dr. Smith is a philosopher who teaches students enrolled in ARI’s educational programs, focusing on the history of philosophy.

Venue

W Amsterdam

Spuistraat 175, Amsterdam, Netherlands, 1012 VN

In the heart of the City Center, just off Dam Square, the W Amsterdam occupies two neighboring historical buildings (a former telephone exchange and a former bank), offering a unique blend of heritage and contemporary style that embodies the city’s vibrant spirit. The W Exchange gives views of the Royal Palace and Amsterdam rooftops, while one side of W Bank overlooks the Singel canal. The hotel is a 15-minute walk from the central train station and the main canals, museums, and Negen Straatjes shopping area are easily accessible on foot or by tram.

SPONSOR STUDENTS

Your generous sponsorship finances travel scholarships to AynRandCon for promising students of Ayn Rand’s philosophy. Simply start your registration and add sponsorships when prompted.

Registration

Registration for AynRandCon-Europe 2024 is now closed.

Join our list and be the first to get details about AynRandCon-Europe 2025.

FAQ

Who is AynRandCon for?

We designed the content to appeal to young people who have read at least one of Ayn Rand’s novels and want to seriously study Objectivism. Attendees should be familiar with Ayn Rand’s fiction and have an interest in her nonfiction works.

Will I have opportunities to interact with speakers outside the sessions?

Yes! In addition to taking questions during their sessions, AynRandCon speakers are happy to make themselves available for discussion whenever there is a break in the conference programming. We encourage you to interact with speakers during breaks, receptions, and meals.

Can I attend a single session or day of the conference?

Day passes will not be sold and you should plan to attend both Saturday and Sunday programming. To ensure scholarship funds are put to their full use, we require attendees receiving a scholarship to attend all lectures and events included in their scholarship package.

I’d like to register my whole family for AynRandCon. How can I do that?

Our system currently accepts only one registration at a time for tickets. Head to the registration section and choose your ticket type. Proceed through your registration; once you finish registration for the first individual, you’ll have the opportunity to add another.

What is your cancellation and refund policy?

The registration fee will be refunded for cancellations made by Februrary 23, 2024. Please contact us at [email protected] if you are no longer able to attend the conference.

How can I get to know other attendees before AynRandCon?

The main way to interact with attendees before the conference is to join the AynRandCon-Europe Facebook group. There, you can meet other attendees and chat about plans for the conference.

How can I find a roommate?

Post a message on the AynRandCon-Europe Facebook group to connect with other attendees concerning rooms and travel.

What are the transporation options from the airport to the conference venue?

You can take a taxi, Ride Share service, or the metro from the Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to the conference venue, the W Amsterdam:

Taxi: Pick up a taxi from right outside the airport exit. A taxi ride from the airport to the conference venue will cost around €60, depending on traffic and time of day.

Uber: The Uber app is widely used in the Netherlands and is operated by taxi companies. The fare is the same as a taxi service but with the added security of knowing in advance the amount that will be requested by the driver and the provision of better-quality vehicles.

Train: Taking the train is a more affordable option, with a one-way ticket costing €6.90. The destination is Amsterdam Centraal. The W Amsterdam is a 15-minute walk from the Central Train Station.

Are meals included in the conference?

The conference includes a Friday night reception with light fare, as well as Saturday and Sunday buffet lunches. Please contact us at [email protected] if you have further questions about meals.

Is there a dress code?

The conference will be photographed and filmed and has a “smart“ or ”smart casual” dress code, which means casual but presentable and neat. If you have questions, contact us at [email protected].

What is your recording policy?

No private audio or video recording is allowed. ARI may record conference events and make them available later through our YouTube channel and other outlets. However, you are encouraged to take photos and post on X (#AynRandCon)! We only ask that you refrain from using flash photography during talks so as not to disturb the speakers and other attendees.

Will you be offering a virtual conference?

We will not be livestreaming AynRandCon-Europe 2024.

I have more/other questions. How can I ask them?

Send us an email at [email protected] and we’ll be happy to help.

ARCEU 2024

March 8–10, 2024 | Amsterdam

AynRandCon is an annual conference where the best young minds come together to explore Ayn Rand’s ideas.

Designed for students of Objectivism ready to take the next step on their journey, AynRandCon-Europe will give you a chance to: