General Sessions
Concurrent Events
Social Events
Lunches
6:30 – 10:00 PMOpening Reception
Meet and mingle with fellow attendees at the official opening of OCON 2025! This event is smart casual. Your fee includes two drinks, and a cash bar is available. The opening reception and dinner are included in all in-person week passes.
8:00 – 9:00 PMYaron BrookWhat is Western Civilization?
As “the nation of the Enlightenment” (in Leonard Peikoff’s description), America represents the culmination of philosophical ideals that trace back to the origins of Western Civilization. But what are those ideals? In this talk, Yaron Brook will highlight as the essence of Western Civilization the gradual recognition of reason as man’s only source of knowledge and guide to life—and the corresponding rejection of religious faith.
7:30 – 8:30 AMFirst Timer Breakfast (Invitation Only)
If this is your first OCON, come meet other first-timers, OCON speakers, and ARI staff at this casual breakfast event.
8:40 – 9:40 AMJunior Intellectual Talk Series
New this year: a series of brief, incisive short-form talks from ARI’s intellectuals-in-training.
David Bakker – Newton Versus Descartes on the Exactness of Mathematics
Ray Schram – The Incompleteness Theorems: Gödel’s Logical Achievement
Sam Weaver – Why Did Jefferson Support Public Education?
8:40 – 9:40 AMJunior Intellectual Talk Series
New this year: a series of brief, incisive short-form talks from ARI’s intellectuals-in-training.
Agustina Vergara Cid – Immigration Enforcement and the Betrayal of Due Process
Robertas Bakula – Do Nobel Prize Winning Economists Get Why Nations Fail?
10:00 – 11:30 AMONKAR GHATESaving the Enlightenment
11:45 AM – 1:30 PMBen Bayer, Nikos SotirakopoulosNetworking Lunch and Reading Discussion: “For the New Intellectual”
Join us for a stimulating lunchtime event that will allow you to meet fellow OCON attendees of all ages, including current and prospective ARU students and ARI intellectuals-in-training. The lunch will also include a reading discussion of one of Ayn Rand’s most challenging philosophical works, “For the New Intellectual.”
The title essay of Rand’s first nonfiction book presents a sweeping survey of intellectual history as part of Rand’s analysis of the state of Western culture. OCON attendees are invited to submit answers to a homework question of their choice about the reading. You’ll discuss the essay during the networking portion of the lunch and then the panel will discuss the homework questions – and comment on select homework submissions – with the aim of deepening appreciation of the essay and its significance for Rand’s philosophy.
You can find the homework instructions here.
1:50 – 3:20 PMBrad Thompson Revolutionary Constitutionalism
The American Revolution is the great event of the modern world. Its character and meaning should not be seen in what it destroyed, but rather in what it created. This talk examines the origin and development of the uniquely American idea of a written constitution as fundamental law. The American Revolution began as a debate over the nature and meaning of the British constitution but ended with colonial Americans discovering new principles and institutions that revolutionized the very idea of a constitution. This talk tells the story of how and why America’s founding fathers created the greatest constitution in world history.
3:40 – 4:40 PMPeter SchwartzPrinciples of a Proper Foreign Policy
How is the ethics of rational self-interest to be implemented in the field of foreign policy? This talk covers the basic principles by which a country should formulate its foreign policy, and then shows how they should be applied to current events. Topics include: a policy of American self-interest vs. Trump’s policy of “America First”; whether America should act to promote freedom in other countries; the role of international alliances; the difference between nationalism and patriotism.
3:40 – 4:40 PMNikos SotirakopoulosThe Road to Fascism (and Are We On It?)
What were the key conditions that made fascism possible a century ago? Which ideas and trends set the stage for its heyday in interwar Europe? And are any of those forces at play in today’s America? Can we still say, ‘It can’t happen here’? In this talk, Nikos explores the ideological, political, and social currents that led to fascism—and whether history could repeat itself.
5:00 – 6:00 PMIntroduction to Planned Giving Happy Hour
In this session, Anna Steinberg, Director of Gift Planning for the Ayn Rand Institute, will discuss ways in which you can choose to support the Institute for generations into the future by joining the Atlantis Legacy Program, the planned giving program of ARI. We will cover the basics of estate planning, wills, trusts, beneficiary designations, how gifts can save you taxes, and gifts that pay you an income. Membership in the Atlantis Legacy includes recognition in the Ayn Rand Center! Light refreshments will be provided.
6:30 – 8:30 PMOCON's Got Talent
Showcasing the best of Objectivist talent, this fan-favorite event returns on Wednesday, July 2! Hosted by Brandon Lisi, the night will feature a live band, cash bar, and an incredible lineup of performances by OCON attendees. Whether you’re on stage or in the audience, expect an unforgettable evening of creativity and camaraderie.
9:00 PM – 12:00 AM Fifth Annual OCON Texas Hold ’Em Poker Championship Tournament
Feeling lucky? Join speakers, board members, and fellow attendees for an exhilarating Texas Hold ’Em Poker Championship Tournament on Wednesday, July 2. With a $100 buy-in (100% tax-deductible!), this high-stakes showdown is always a highlight. Register by June 27 for a chip bonus—seats are limited, so don’t wait!
8:40 – 9:40 AMJunior Intellectual Talk Series
New this year: a series of brief, incisive short-form talks from ARI’s intellectuals-in-training.
Brandon Lisi – The Grandfather of Atlas Shrugged
Audra Hilse – Revised Blueprints: Early Versions of Part II of The Fountainhead
8:40 – 9:40 AMJunior Intellectual Talk Series
New this year: a series of brief, incisive short-form talks from ARI’s intellectuals-in-training.
Tristan de Liege – How to Love Your Work
Steven Warden – It’s Up to You: Making Choices
Mike Mazza – What It Takes to Learn a Philosophy
10:00 – 11:30 AMTal Tsfany Spreading Objectivism: A Vision for ARI’s Future
Tal Tsfany, ARI’s president and CEO, will review ARI’s mission to spread Objectivism and the progress made during 2024–25.
11:45 AM – 1:30 PM Lunch Break
Lunch on your own.
1:50 – 3:20 PMShoshana MilgramAllen Drury’s Inspiring Political Fiction: From Advise and Consent (1959) to The Promise of Joy (1975)
Allen Drury’s Washington novels represent political fiction at its finest: intricate plots, colorful characterizations, violent conflicts of values, clear contrasts between good and evil, and, in Ayn Rand’s words, the “ability to dramatize abstract ideas.” The first in a six-novel series, Advise and Consent, won a Pulitzer in the face of fierce leftist opposition. Drury’s books entertain and inspire, making us wish our current political landscape had the sharp clarity of Drury’s novels—and that his heroes walked among us.
1:50 – 3:20 PMTara Smith, Josh Windham, Elan Journo (mod)Reclaiming the Fourth Amendment
A panel discussion featuring attorney Josh Windham, philosopher Tara Smith, and moderator Elan Journo. The Fourth Amendment (proclaiming the right “against unreasonable searches and seizures”) exemplifies the individualist spirit of the Enlightenment. Yet, despite increasing concerns with privacy these days (of medical records, financial information, etc.), it is increasingly abused. What is the relationship between privacy and property? How can we update our understandings of a trespass or of a search to accommodate digital technologies while maintaining objectivity? And what philosophical principles are needed to guide the application and fulfill the promise of the Fourth Amendment?
3:40 – 4:40 PMAmesh AdaljaSmallpox in 1721: Boston, Bolyston, and Benjamin Franklin
In this talk, Dr. Adalja will recount the captivating story of smallpox in the pre-vaccine era, when the controversial and sometimes dangerous method of prevention — variolation — was attempted to halt a smallpox outbreak in Boston. This event saw Benjamin and James Franklin’s newspaper become a leading forum for anti-variolation sentiment and eventually culminated in a firebombing. The talk will emphasize how new technology was sometimes received and the principles of government involvement in communicable disease control.
3:40 – 4:40 PMAudra Hilse, Brandon Lisi, Elan Journo (mod)Celebrating Ayn Rand at the Ford Hall Forum: Archivists Panel
Between 1961 and 1981, Ayn Rand gave 19 talks at the Ford Hall Forum in Boston, where she analyzed major events and issues of the time from the framework of her unique philosophy of Objectivism. In this panel featuring the Ayn Rand Institute’s archivists, attendees will get a behind-the-scenes look at Rand’s iconic talks at the forum and a selection of rare audio that has never been released online. The event will also commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Ayn Rand Archives and share its ambitious plans for the future.
5:00 – 6:00 PMSwing Dance Lessons
Another way to enjoy OCON in Boston? Join us for an energizing East Coast Swing dance lesson! This upbeat, beginner-friendly dance is easy to pick up and a fantastic way to meet fellow attendees in a fun, relaxed setting. No partner? No worries—we’ll rotate partners throughout the class. Whether you’re brand new to swing or hoping to refine your steps, all are welcome. Come for the movement, stay for the camaraderie, and leave with a newfound love for the dance floor!
7:00 – 11:00 PMARI's Annual Gala
For information about our 40th Anniversary Gala, please click here!
7:00 – 10:15 PMDouble Feature Movie Night
Indulge in the Magic of Chocolat—A Story of Passion, Individualism, and the Sweet Taste of Freedom
What happens when an independent, life-loving woman dares to challenge dogmatic traditions with nothing but courage, conviction, and delicious confections? In Chocolat, the enchanting 2000 film starring Juliette Binoche and Johnny Depp, a mysterious chocolatier arrives in a rigid French village just in time for Lent, stirring up more than just decadent treats. As her creations awaken people to the pleasures of life—teaching them to love, laugh, and live—she faces off against those who fear change. With its rich visuals, award-winning acting, and themes of independence and the pursuit of happiness, Chocolat is a cinematic treat that speaks to the soul. Join us for this inspiring celebration of life’s sweetest freedoms.
Whiplash: A Story of Unrelenting Ambition
In Whiplash, a young, talented drummer will stop at nothing to achieve greatness, even if it means enduring the harsh and unpredictable methods of his ruthless instructor. As the two clash, their conflict becomes a battle between relentless ambition and a warped view of what true greatness demands. With its pulse-pounding performances and sharp, unflinching narrative, Whiplash is a captivating exploration of ambition, obsession, and the price of success. Don’t miss this unforgettable tale of determination and the pursuit of one’s highest potential.
10:00 – 11:30 AMBen BayerAmerica Should Declare Independence From Altruism
“The world crisis of today is a moral crisis — and nothing less than a moral revolution can resolve it: a moral revolution to sanction and complete the political achievement of the American Revolution. Evasions, equivocations and guilty apologies will not work any longer.” This lecture will explain why Ayn Rand’s observation in 1961 applies even more urgently today. It will explain why America’s reactions to 9/11 and the Covid pandemic dramatically illustrate the nation’s continuing evasion of the role of altruism in these crises. It will draw on underappreciated material from Ayn Rand’s views on the psychology of evasion about why ordinary people want to evade their own reliance on altruism, and argue that her views help explain the form of America’s reaction to today’s crises.
1:00 – 5:00 PM
July 4th Excursion: A Freedom Trail Scavenger Hunt
Celebrate Independence Day by exploring Boston’s iconic Freedom Trail—Objectivist style! Take part in our scavenger hunt for a chance to win a free pass to OCON 2026. Cap off the adventure at a special evening reception with fellow attendees.
7:00 – 9:00 PMIndependence Day Reception
Independence Day celebration, reception and concert.
8:40 – 9:40 AMBendrix Bailey, John Cerasuolo, Loren Corle, Tal TsfanyObjectivism and Management
TBA
8:40 – 9:40 AMJunior Intellectual Talk Series
New this year: a series of brief, incisive short-form talks from ARI’s intellectuals-in-training.
Alex Silverman – Spinoza: A Hero of the Enlightenment
Nicolas Krusek – Nietzsche’s Zarathustra: A Hymn to Earthly Life
10:00 – 11:30 AMGreg SalmieriConceiving Values
It is a central tenet of Objectivism that, because the human form of consciousness is volitional, human beings do not have any automatic values—not even valuing our own lives. This talk will discuss the process by which we rationally form values at all levels from valuing a specific activity, toy, career, or person to valuing one’s life and the moral values needed to sustain it. Topics covered will include: the relations between values, needs, and desires, the steps involved in the formation of new values, and what makes a value objective.
11:45 AM – 1:30 PM Benefactors and Atlantis Legacy Lunch (Invitation Only)
1:50 – 3:20 PMJason RheinsThe Greek Enlightenment: Lessons from the Achievements and Failures of the first Age of Reason
If a culture achieves “enlightenment” when its intellectuals bring all natural and human phenomena under the scrutiny and judgment of reason informed by experience, then the 5th-4th centuries BCE in Ancient Greece were an age of nascent enlightenment. In this talk we investigate what made it culturally, politically, and intellectually possible, what its achievements and shortfalls were, and what we can learn from it.
1:50 – 3:20 PMTHOMAS EIDEN, DEREK SUTHERLAND, KEITH LOCKITCH (MOD)Innovations in Nuclear Technology
The nuclear industry is one of the most striking examples of taking the most advanced, abstract, theoretical scientific discoveries and applying them to the development of practical life-serving technologies and products. In this session, two engineers/businessmen will tell you about their work in two different areas of nuclear technology. Thomas Eiden, CEO of Atomic Alchemy (and OAC graduate), will give an update on the progress his company is making in solving the problem he described in his OCON 2021 talk: the looming crisis in the supply of materials for nuclear medicine. Derek Sutherland, VP of R&D at Realta Fusion (and current ARU student), will talk about recent advancements in fusion energy development and his motivations for his work towards making nuclear fusion energy a practical reality.
3:40 – 4:40 PMDon Watkins Enlightenment On Trial: The Real Lessons of the American and French Revolutions
Critics of the Enlightenment point to the French Revolution and its descent into the Reign of Terror as an indictment of the Enlightenment ideals of reason and individual rights. Are they right? Did France’s revolutionaries fail because they were radical utopians who tore down tradition in the name of abstract principles? Did the American Revolution succeed because it was a “conservative” movement to protect traditional liberties? Or do the revolutions of the eighteenth century vindicate a radical commitment to Enlightenment values?
7:00 PM – 12:00 AM Closing Reception and Dinner with ARU Graduation Ceremony
Objectivist Conferences / Ayn Rand® Institute reserves the right to make necessary adjustments to the schedule.
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