I think this is a mistake of some kind--a typo, a scanning error, or a bad transcription. The word "witting" makes no sense here. Google, click click... yes, this is a passage from an essay by Ayn Rand, "For the New Intellectuals," online here. The word in the text is NOT "witting."

Surely this should be WILLING ?

What does your dictionary say, and what do you think?

Haha thanks. I thought my source was reliable because it was published by the Penguin group and surely, it does not want any stain on its name. For the second suggestion, I honestly thought the word should be "willing," but considering the author of the book and my level in English, it would be more apt not to trust my instinct and instead, I should find some assurance first so I have to consult you guys. For the last suggestion, actually, I got my copy online. Thank you for all the answers and suggestions!

Dan, you are an excellent teacher and a great citizen of this community.