Eddie Willers:
* Motivation: Eddie is driven by a deep sense of duty and responsibility. He believes in hard work, integrity, and doing what's right, even when it's difficult. He's motivated by a desire to uphold the values of his father and to contribute meaningfully to society.
* Approach to Life: Eddie is a man of action. He's pragmatic, focused on practical solutions, and willing to put in the effort to achieve his goals. He has a strong sense of loyalty and strives to build genuine, lasting relationships.
James Taggart:
* Motivation: James is primarily driven by ambition and self-interest. He desires power, prestige, and wealth, even if it means compromising his principles. He often prioritizes his own advancement over the well-being of others.
* Approach to Life: James is passive and reactive. He's easily swayed by others' opinions and prefers to avoid difficult decisions. He lacks a strong sense of self and struggles with responsibility.
Comparison:
* Values: Eddie represents the values of hard work, integrity, and self-reliance, while James embodies the opposite: self-serving ambition and a lack of personal responsibility.
* Actions: Eddie takes initiative and works actively to achieve his goals, while James often relies on others to solve his problems.
* Relationships: Eddie values genuine connection and loyalty, while James forms relationships based on his own needs and perceived benefits.
Contrast:
* Focus: Eddie's focus is on doing the right thing for the good of society, while James is focused on his own personal gain.
* Morality: Eddie's actions are guided by his strong moral compass, while James frequently bends or breaks ethical rules to advance his own interests.
* Self-reliance: Eddie believes in individual responsibility and self-sufficiency, while James often depends on others for support and solutions.
In essence: Eddie Willers represents the ideal of a productive and responsible individual, while James Taggart embodies the flaws of selfishness and a lack of principle. Their contrasting approaches to life highlight the central themes of Ayn Rand's novel: the importance of individualism, the dangers of collectivism, and the inherent value of productive work.