The Rational Egoist The Role of Humor in The Good Life – with James Stevens Valliant
The Role of Humor in The Good Life – with James Stevens Valliant
What is the value of humor in a rational life? Is laughter just a luxury—or an essential expression of joy, perspective, and moral clarity?
In this episode of The Rational Egoist, host Michael Liebowitz is joined by James Stevens Valliant, author, attorney, and lifelong Objectivist, for a rich exploration of the role humor plays in a life lived well. They discuss how laughter reflects our deepest judgments, how comedy can serve as a weapon against irrationality, and why a sense of humor is not only compatible with moral seriousness—but necessary for flourishing.
James Stevens Valliant is the author of Creating Christ: How Roman Emperors Invented Christianity and The Passion of Ayn Rand’s Critics. With intellectual depth and sharp wit, he brings a unique perspective to the intersection of philosophy, history, and human happiness.
This is a conversation that may change how you think about humor—and make you laugh while doing it.
About Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational Egoist
Michael Liebowitz is the host of The Rational Egoist podcast, a philosopher, author, and political activist committed to the principles of reason, individualism, and rational self-interest. Deeply influenced by the philosophy of Ayn Rand, Michael uses his platform to challenge cultural dogma, expose moral contradictions, and defend the values that make human flourishing possible.
His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to becoming a respected voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities is a testament to the transformative power of philosophy. Today, Michael speaks, writes, and debates passionately in defence of individual rights and intellectual clarity.
He is the co-author of two compelling books that examine the failures of the correctional system and the redemptive power of moral conviction:
Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Corrections Encourages Crime
https://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064X
View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty
https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj
About Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational Egoist
Xenia Ioannou is the producer of The Rational Egoist, overseeing the publishing and promotion of each episode to reflect a consistent standard of clarity, professionalism, and intellectual integrity.
As a CEO, property manager, entrepreneur, and lifelong advocate for capitalism and individual rights, Xenia ensures the podcast stays true to its core values of reason, freedom, and personal responsibility.
Xenia also leads Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup in Adelaide, where passionate thinkers gather to discuss Ayn Rand’s ideas and their application to life, politics, and culture.
Join us at: https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/
(Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup)
Because freedom is worth thinking about—and talking about.
Follow Life on Purpose – Xenia's thought-provoking essays at her Substack:
https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menu
#JamesStevensValliant #CreatingChrist #Objectivism #RationalEgoism #TheGoodLife #HumorAndPhilosophy #MichaelLiebowitz #LifeOnPurpose #CapitalismAndCoffee #AynRand