Considering the events of Arthur Koestler's Darkness at Noon as a whole, the character of Ivanov is a more estimable character than Rubashov. Ivanov believes that the needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few, while Rubashov's newfound belief is that the individual is sacrosanct.
             In comparing Rubashov and Ivanov one sees that they are very similar people, both are very logical and intelligent, with similar thought processes. They were also both part of the original revolution, members of the intelligentsia and raised in similar upper class homes. Initially both were devoted to their party's beliefs. They were so similar that they could anticipate each other's actions. While holding different views they also recognize their mutual similarity. This can be illustrated with the following quote from Ivanov who says to Rubashov, "...you are afraid of me. Because my way of thinking and of arguing is your own, and you are afraid of the echo in your head."
             Rubashov has for most of his life believed, along with most other people, that the cornerstone of the governing party's beliefs is correct. This belief is that the community is of paramount importance. While individual rights are nice to have, one must be able to sacrifice them immediately in order to benefit the community. During the book we find that Rubashov has begun to doubt these beliefs. He feels guilty about all the people he has consigned to death for the good of the party. At one point he counsels Ivanov to submit to save his own life. He has been slowly changing his beliefs to become diametrically opposed to that of the one supported by the party. Rubashov comes to believe that the individual is sacrosanct and should not be sacrificed for even the loftiest of goals.
             A system that emphasizes individuality is okay, but it pales when compared with a well-run system where the community is valued more then the individual. A more co...