Reflection of Anthem

How is "every man--is an end in himself" realized in the story of Equality 7-2521? 

Equality 7-2521 is a deep thinker who enjoys learning. This plays out as he becomes braver throughout  the story. He discovers a tunnel where he may experiment and this boosts his curiosity. I think in the end, he really relishes the idea that he is different from everyone else, and in turn, that everyone is different from everyone else. He learned that society wasn't meant to be a body of people that were all the same, he broke away from that. He learned that man is supposed to be in-charge of his own fate, and be his own individual person. 

When a character acts selfishly against the prevailing vice(s) of the dominant social order, true virtue exhibits itself?

Equality 7-2521 acts selfishly most of his life, disobeying the society in little ways, such as considering people as friends, which is forbidden. He is a born rule breaker, keeping his secret of the tunnel, talking to the Golden One, and finally running away and admitting selfishness. But I believe that after being raised thinking everyone is the same and things are only as they are planned out to be, such as getting his street sweeping job, selfishness is deserved. 
Similar to mothers who do so much work they have no time to themselves, it is important for Equality 7-2521 to make time for himself. 
True virtue? That is hard to say. In most cases acting selfishly is frowned upon, but really its a necessity of life. No one can be entirely selfless their whole life. Except for the people who Equality 7-2521 left behind, but they weren't really living. Being controlled is never a way to live, free will is so important, it shapes our colourful society and makes it the amazingly intricate piece of art that it is. Without individuality we are nothing.

I feel Equality 7-2521 and the Golden One's decision was a wise one, and will treat them well. True virtue has been exhibited to a point, a new life that is free and happy. They've learned to fend for themselves and it will improve their quality of life by a long shot.