The Atlas Shrugged (Ayn Rand)

"Atlas Shrugged," a novel by Ayn Rand, explores a dystopian future where society's most productive individuals, including industrialists and thinkers, struggle under oppressive government regulations and collectivism. As their capabilities are stifled, they begin to disappear, leading to societal collapse. The title refers to Atlas, a Titan in Greek mythology who holds up the sky; the metaphor suggests that these individuals bear the burden of the world. The book champions individualism, capitalism, and personal freedom, advocating for a society that values innovation and the achievements of its most capable members.