The Rational Egoist

The Rational Egoist: Liberty Insights with Jack Lloyd In an engaging session of The Rational Egoist, host Michael Liebowitz welcomes Jack Lloyd, a fervent advocate for libertarianism and author of "The Definitive Guide to Libertarian Voluntaryism." This episode promises a riveting exploration into the realms of libertarian thought, spotlighting Dave Smith's libertarian activism, the nuanced debate on immigration, and the intricate dynamics of Israel's state policies through a libertarian lens.Michael and Jack dissect Dave Smith's contributions to libertarian discourse, examining how his viewpoints encourage a reevaluation of government roles and individual freedom. The discussion progresses to the contentious issue of immigration, where Jack proposes a libertarian approach that respects individual rights while acknowledging the complexities of open borders.The dialogue concludes with an analysis of Israel, considering libertarian perspectives on state sovereignty and the non-aggression principle in conflict resolution. This episode is a concise yet comprehensive journey into libertarian principles, offering insights into their application in addressing contemporary political and social challenges. Join us for a thought-provoking dialogue on liberty, rights, and the path to a voluntaryist future. Michael Leibowitz, host of The Rational Egoist podcast, is a philosopher and political activist who draws inspiration from Ayn Rand’s philosophy, advocating for reason, rational self-interest, and individualism. His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to a prominent voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities highlights the transformative impact of embracing these principles. Leibowitz actively participates in political debates and produces content aimed at promoting individual rights and freedoms. He is the co-author of “Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime” and “View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty,” which explore societal issues and his personal evolution through Rand’s teachings.Explore his work and journey further through his books:“Down the Rabbit Hole”: https://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064X“View from a Cage”: https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj

Behind Bars: Unveiling the History of the Prison System with Professor Ashley RubinDelve into the intricate history of the prison system with esteemed guest Professor Ashley Rubin, Associate Professor of Sociology at the University of Hawaii at Manoa and coeditor of Law and Society Review. Join us as we unravel the complexities and evolution of incarceration, shedding light on its societal impact and implications for justice. Michael Leibowitz, host of The Rational Egoist podcast, is a philosopher and political activist who draws inspiration from Ayn Rand’s philosophy, advocating for reason, rational self-interest, and individualism. His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to a prominent voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities highlights the transformative impact of embracing these principles. Leibowitz actively participates in political debates and produces content aimed at promoting individual rights and freedoms. He is the co-author of “Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime” and “View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty,” which explore societal issues and his personal evolution through Rand’s teachings.Explore his work and journey further through his books: “Down the Rabbit Hole”: https://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064X “View from a Cage”: https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj

The Rational Egoist: Exploring Economics and Immigration with Professor Bryan Caplan Join host Michael Leibowitz on "The Rational Egoist" podcast as she delves into the intersection of economics, individual rights, and non-conformism with esteemed guest, Professor Bryan Caplan. As a leading economist at George Mason University and the author of the thought-provoking book, "You Will Not Stampede Me: Essays on Non-Conformism," Caplan brings a unique perspective to the table. Together, they discuss pressing issues surrounding immigration, economics, and the importance of upholding individual rights in today's society. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that challenges conventional wisdom and encourages rational thought. Michael Leibowitz, host of The Rational Egoist podcast, is a philosopher and political activist who draws inspiration from Ayn Rand’s philosophy, advocating for reason, rational self-interest, and individualism. His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to a prominent voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities highlights the transformative impact of embracing these principles. Leibowitz actively participates in political debates and produces content aimed at promoting individual rights and freedoms. He is the co-author of “Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime” and “View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty,” which explore societal issues and his personal evolution through Rand’s teachings.Explore his work and journey further through his books:“Down the Rabbit Hole”: https://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064X“View from a Cage”: https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj

The Rational Egoist: Navigating Addiction and Recovery with Derek Lambert In this moving episode of The Rational Egoist, host Michael Liebowitz welcomes Derek Lambert, the passionate host of the MythVision podcast, husband, and father, for an intimate conversation on overcoming addiction and the journey towards recovery and leading a meaningful life. Derek shares his personal experiences and insights, offering hope and guidance to those facing similar challenges. Together, Michael and Derek delve into the complexities of addiction, the transformative power of recovery, and the pursuit of purpose and fulfillment beyond the struggles. This episode is a beacon of light for anyone seeking to understand the path to recovery and the profound impact it can have on one's life direction and sense of meaning. Join us for an inspiring discussion that illuminates the possibilities of change, resilience, and the strength found in vulnerability. Michael Leibowitz, host of The Rational Egoist podcast, is a philosopher and political activist who draws inspiration from Ayn Rand's philosophy, advocating for reason, rational self-interest, and individualism. His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to a prominent voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities highlights the transformative impact of embracing these principles. Leibowitz actively participates in political debates and produces content aimed at promoting individual rights and freedoms. He is the co-author of “Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime” and “View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty,” which explore societal issues and his personal evolution through Rand's teachings.Explore his work and journey further through his books:“Down the Rabbit Hole”: https://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064X“View from a Cage”: https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj

Bastiat vs. Modern Monetary Theory: A Timeless Refutation with Dr. Jonathan Newman Join us on The Rational Egoist as host Michael Liebowitz and guest Dr. Jonathan Newman, a Fellow at the Mises Institute and expert in Austrian economics, delve into how Frederic Bastiat anticipated and debunked the core ideas of Modern Monetary Theory (MMT) back in the mid-19th century. This episode bridges past and present, revealing Bastiat's critical insights on government spending and economic prosperity that echo through today's policy debates. Discover the timeless wisdom of Bastiat and its relevance to understanding and critiquing contemporary economic policies. Don't miss this thought-provoking exploration of economic thought's enduring impact.Michael Leibowitz is a renowned philosopher, political activist, and the esteemed host of the Rational Egoist podcast. Inspired by the philosophical teachings of Ayn Rand, Leibowitz passionately champions the principles of reason, rational self-interest, and individualism, seeking to empower others through his compelling work. His life’s narrative exemplifies the transformative power of Ayn Rand’s writings. Having faced challenging circumstances that led to a 25-year prison sentence, Leibowitz emerged from adversity by embracing the tenets of rational self-interest and moral philosophy put forth by Ayn Rand. This profound transformation propelled him to become an influential figure in the libertarian and Objectivist communities, motivating others to adopt reason, individualism, and self-interest in their own lives. Beyond his impactful podcasting endeavours, Leibowitz fearlessly engages in lively political debates, advocating for the protection of individual rights and freedoms through compelling YouTube videos and insightful interviews. His unwavering commitment to these ideals has garnered him a dedicated following of like-minded individuals.Leibowitz is a versatile author, co-authoring the thought-provoking book titled “Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime.” This groundbreaking work delves into societal attitudes surrounding punishment and rehabilitation, shedding light on how misguided approaches have contributed to the rise of crime and recidivism. Additionally, he has authored the book “View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty,” offering an intimate portrayal of his personal journey while exploring the philosophies that influenced his transformation. As you embark on your intellectual journey, join Michael Leibowitz as he advocates for reason, individualism, and the pursuit of self-interest, inspiring others to embrace a philosophy that empowers and uplifts the human spirit.For a deeper exploration of his ideas and insights, don’t miss the opportunity to read “Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime,” co-authored by Michael Leibowitz. And also, delve into his book “View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty.” Both books are available for purchase using the following links:“Down the Rabbit Hole”: https://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064X“View from a Cage”: https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj

In this riveting episode of The Rational Egoist, host Michael Liebowitz welcomes the multifaceted writer and journalist Christian Monson for an enlightening conversation that challenges conventional wisdom. Christian, known for his extensive coverage on topics ranging from the thrill of motorcycles and firearms to the complexities of economics and history, brings his unique perspective to one of the most debated subjects in post-war economic history: the Marshall Plan.As we delve into the intricacies of the Marshall Plan, often heralded as the epitome of American generosity and a model for international aid, Christian exposes the myths and misconceptions that have surrounded this monumental initiative for decades. Through a meticulous examination of historical facts and economic outcomes, the discussion sheds light on the real impacts of the Marshall Plan on Europe's recovery post-World War II. Michael and Christian engage in a thought-provoking dialogue that not only questions the narrative of altruistic aid but also explores the implications of such policies on international relations and economic independence. By scrutinising the underpinnings of the plan and its execution, this episode offers listeners a chance to reconsider the legacy of one of the 20th century's most significant economic policies. Whether you're a history buff, an economics enthusiast, or someone intrigued by the dynamics of international policies, this episode of The Rational Egoist promises to provide a compelling analysis that challenges mainstream perspectives. Join us as we embark on a journey of discovery, unearthing the truths behind the myths of the Marshall Plan with Christian Monson. Michael Leibowitz is a renowned philosopher, political activist, and the esteemed host of the Rational Egoist podcast. Inspired by the philosophical teachings of Ayn Rand, Leibowitz passionately champions the principles of reason, rational self-interest, and individualism, seeking to empower others through his compelling work. His life’s narrative exemplifies the transformative power of Ayn Rand’s writings. Having faced challenging circumstances that led to a 25-year prison sentence, Leibowitz emerged from adversity by embracing the tenets of rational self-interest and moral philosophy put forth by Ayn Rand. This profound transformation propelled him to become an influential figure in the libertarian and Objectivist communities, motivating others to adopt reason, individualism, and self-interest in their own lives. His unwavering commitment to these ideals has garnered him a dedicated following of like-minded individuals.Leibowitz is a versatile author, co-authoring the thought-provoking book titled “Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime.” This groundbreaking work delves into societal attitudes surrounding punishment and rehabilitation, shedding light on how misguided approaches have contributed to the rise of crime and recidivism. Additionally, he has authored the book “View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty,” offering an intimate portrayal of his personal journey while exploring the philosophies that influenced his transformation.As you embark on your intellectual journey, join Michael Leibowitz as he advocates for reason, individualism, and the pursuit of self-interest, inspiring others to embrace a philosophy that empowers and uplifts the human spirit. For a deeper exploration of his ideas and insights, don’t miss the opportunity to read “Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime,” co-authored by Michael Leibowitz. And also, delve into his book “View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty.” Both books are available for purchase using the following links:“Down the Rabbit Hole”: https://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064X“View from a Cage”: https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj

The Rational Egoist: Navigating the Depths with Dostoevsky - A Conversation with Professor Carol Appollonio In this thought-provoking episode of "The Rational Egoist," host Michael Liebowitz is joined by Professor Carol Appollonio, a distinguished scholar in Slavic and European Studies, with a special focus on Russian literature. Together, they embark on a deep dive into the complex world of Fyodor Dostoevsky, one of Russia's most profound and insightful novelists. Professor Appollonio brings her extensive knowledge to the table, shedding light on Dostoevsky's exploration of the human condition, morality, and the pursuit of individual purpose against the backdrop of 19th-century Russia. Throughout the discussion, Michael and Professor Appollonio explore the intricate themes of freedom, responsibility, and the nature of good and evil that pervade Dostoevsky's work. They also discuss how Dostoevsky's exploration of these themes offers invaluable insights into the challenges of modern society, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own beliefs and the principles that guide their lives. This episode is not just a literary analysis; it's an invitation to ponder the profound questions that Dostoevsky raises about human nature, society, and the path to genuine self-fulfillment. Join us for a riveting journey into the heart of Russian literature, guided by two passionate experts who illuminate the relevance of Dostoevsky's work to our contemporary quest for meaning and individual integrity. Michael Leibowitz is a renowned philosopher, political activist, and the esteemed host of the Rational Egoist podcast. Inspired by the philosophical teachings of Ayn Rand, Leibowitz passionately champions the principles of reason, rational self-interest, and individualism, seeking to empower others through his compelling work.His life’s narrative exemplifies the transformative power of Ayn Rand’s writings. Having faced challenging circumstances that led to a 25-year prison sentence, Leibowitz emerged from adversity by embracing the tenets of rational self-interest and moral philosophy put forth by Ayn Rand. This profound transformation propelled him to become an influential figure in the libertarian and Objectivist communities, motivating others to adopt reason, individualism, and self-interest in their own lives. Beyond his impactful podcasting endeavours, Leibowitz fearlessly engages in lively political debates, advocating for the protection of individual rights and freedoms through compelling YouTube videos and insightful interviews. His unwavering commitment to these ideals has garnered him a dedicated following of like-minded individuals.Leibowitz is a versatile author, co-authoring the thought-provoking book titled “Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime.” This groundbreaking work delves into societal attitudes surrounding punishment and rehabilitation, shedding light on how misguided approaches have contributed to the rise of crime and recidivism. Additionally, he has authored the book “View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty,” offering an intimate portrayal of his personal journey while exploring the philosophies that influenced his transformation. As you embark on your intellectual journey, join Michael Leibowitz as he advocates for reason, individualism, and the pursuit of self-interest, inspiring others to embrace a philosophy that empowers and uplifts the human spirit.For a deeper exploration of his ideas and insights, don’t miss the opportunity to read “Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime,” co-authored by Michael Leibowitz. And also, delve into his book “View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty.” Both books are available for purchase using the following links:“Down the Rabbit Hole”: https://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064X“View from a Cage”: https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj

In this enlightening episode of The Rational Egoist, host Michael Liebowitz engages in a profound conversation with esteemed guest Professor Paul Lerner, Chair of the Van Hannick History Department and Director of the Max Kade Institute for Austrian-German-Swiss Studies at the University of Southern California. Together, they embark on a captivating journey through the intricate history of psychiatry, exploring its evolution from ancient practices to modern-day mental health treatments. Delving into the depths of this fascinating field, Professor Lerner sheds light on the pivotal moments and key figures that have shaped psychiatry over the centuries. The discussion takes us through the transformation of mental health care, from the early days of asylums to the rise of psychoanalysis and beyond, highlighting the impact of cultural, social, and scientific developments on the discipline. Listeners will be treated to a rich tapestry of stories that illustrate the complex relationship between society and mental health, including how historical events have influenced psychiatric thought and practice. Professor Lerner's expertise brings to life the controversies, breakthroughs, and ongoing challenges in the quest to understand the human mind. This episode is not just a historical overview but a deep dive into the philosophical and ethical considerations that have accompanied the evolution of psychiatry. Michael and Professor Lerner discuss the significance of individual autonomy, the ethics of treatment modalities, and the future directions of mental health care in a world that increasingly recognises the importance of mental wellbeing. Michael Leibowitz is a renowned philosopher, political activist, and the esteemed host of the Rational Egoist podcast. Inspired by the philosophical teachings of Ayn Rand, Leibowitz passionately champions the principles of reason, rational self-interest, and individualism, seeking to empower others through his compelling work. His life’s narrative exemplifies the transformative power of Ayn Rand’s writings. Having faced challenging circumstances that led to a 25-year prison sentence, Leibowitz emerged from adversity by embracing the tenets of rational self-interest and moral philosophy put forth by Ayn Rand. This profound transformation propelled him to become an influential figure in the libertarian and Objectivist communities, motivating others to adopt reason, individualism, and self-interest in their own lives. Leibowitz is a versatile author, co-authoring the thought-provoking book titled “Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime.” This groundbreaking work delves into societal attitudes surrounding punishment and rehabilitation, shedding light on how misguided approaches have contributed to the rise of crime and recidivism.Additionally, he has authored the book “View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty,” offering an intimate portrayal of his personal journey while exploring the philosophies that influenced his transformation.As you embark on your intellectual journey, join Michael Leibowitz as he advocates for reason, individualism, and the pursuit of self-interest, inspiring others to embrace a philosophy that empowers and uplifts the human spirit.For a deeper exploration of his ideas and insights, don’t miss the opportunity to read “Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime,” co-authored by Michael Leibowitz. And also, delve into his book “View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty.” Both books are available for purchase using the following links:“Down the Rabbit Hole”: https://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064X“View from a Cage”: https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj

In this enlightening episode of "The Rational Egoist," host Michael Liebowitz welcomes esteemed guest Professor Stephen Hicks, a distinguished figure in the realm of philosophy and a vanguard in the critique of postmodernism. Professor Hicks, who serves as a beacon of knowledge at Rockford University and holds prestigious positions as the Executive Director of The Center for Ethics and Entrepreneurship and a Senior Scholar at The Atlas Society, brings a wealth of insight into the ideological underpinnings that shape our society. As the author of the groundbreaking work, "Explaining Postmodernism: Skepticism and Socialism from Rousseau to Foucault," Professor Hicks embarks on a deep dive with Michael into the labyrinth of postmodern thought, dissecting its origins, principles, and the significant impact it has had on political, cultural, and educational landscapes. The conversation navigates the challenging terrain of skepticism and socialism, tracing their evolution from the ideas of Rousseau to the complex theories of Foucault, and examining the profound implications these philosophies have for individual rights, freedom, and the pursuit of truth in our contemporary world. Listeners will be treated to a masterclass on the contrast between postmodernism's relativistic approach to knowledge and morality, and the principled stance of rational egoism that champions reason, individualism, and objective reality. Through a series of engaging discussions, Michael and Professor Hicks illuminate the path towards understanding the stakes of accepting or rejecting postmodernist claims, offering a clarion call for intellectual integrity and the valorization of the individual's capacity to understand the world through reason. This episode is a must-listen for anyone invested in the battle of ideas shaping our era, providing not only a critique of postmodernism but also a celebration of the human spirit's unyielding quest for knowledge and truth. Michael Leibowitz is a renowned philosopher, political activist, and the esteemed host of the Rational Egoist podcast. Inspired by the philosophical teachings of Ayn Rand, Leibowitz passionately champions the principles of reason, rational self-interest, and individualism, seeking to empower others through his compelling work. His life’s narrative exemplifies the transformative power of Ayn Rand’s writings. Having faced challenging circumstances that led to a 25-year prison sentence, Leibowitz emerged from adversity by embracing the tenets of rational self-interest and moral philosophy put forth by Ayn Rand. This profound transformation propelled him to become an influential figure in the libertarian and Objectivist communities, motivating others to adopt reason, individualism, and self-interest in their own lives. Leibowitz is a versatile author, co-authoring the thought-provoking book titled “Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime.” This groundbreaking work delves into societal attitudes surrounding punishment and rehabilitation, shedding light on how misguided approaches have contributed to the rise of crime and recidivism. Additionally, he has authored the book “View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty,” offering an intimate portrayal of his personal journey while exploring the philosophies that influenced his transformation. For a deeper exploration of his ideas and insights, don’t miss the opportunity to read “Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime,” co-authored by Michael Leibowitz. And also, delve into his book “View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty.” Both books are available for purchase using the following links:“Down the Rabbit Hole”: https://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064X“View from a Cage”: https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj

In this insightful episode of "The Rational Egoist," host Michael Liebowitz is joined by Professor Ralph Schoellhamer, an esteemed Assistant Professor from Webster University's College of Humanities and Social Sciences in Vienna, Austria. Prof. Schoellhamer, a renowned expert in cultural history, cultural conflicts, and the phenomena of culture wars, engages in a thought-provoking discussion that delves into the intricate dynamics of contemporary culture wars. Throughout the episode, Michael and Prof. Schoellhamer explore the complexities of cultural conflicts, dissecting how they arise and the underlying factors that fuel them. They discuss the historical context of culture wars, drawing parallels and contrasts with present-day scenarios. Prof. Schoellhamer shares his expertise on the influence of cultural history in shaping societal norms and values, and how these elements contribute to the broader cultural landscape. The conversation also addresses the impact of cultural conflicts on individual freedom and autonomy, a topic of particular relevance in today's society. Prof. Schoellhamer provides a deep analysis of how cultural narratives and clashes can shape public discourse, influence policy-making, and affect the everyday lives of individuals. Listeners are invited to gain a deeper understanding of the role of culture in shaping our world, the importance of preserving individual liberties amidst these conflicts, and the necessity of engaging in rational, informed debates to navigate the complexities of the culture wars. "The Rational Egoist" once again proves to be an essential platform for those seeking to understand and influence the cultural landscape through a lens that values personal freedom and rational thought. Michael Leibowitz is a renowned philosopher, political activist, and the esteemed host of the Rational Egoist podcast. Inspired by the philosophical teachings of Ayn Rand, Leibowitz passionately champions the principles of reason, rational self-interest, and individualism, seeking to empower others through his compelling work. His life’s narrative exemplifies the transformative power of Ayn Rand’s writings. Having faced challenging circumstances that led to a 25-year prison sentence, Leibowitz emerged from adversity by embracing the tenets of rational self-interest and moral philosophy put forth by Ayn Rand. This profound transformation propelled him to become an influential figure in the libertarian and Objectivist communities, motivating others to adopt reason, individualism, and self-interest in their own lives. Beyond his impactful podcasting endeavors, Leibowitz fearlessly engages in lively political debates, advocating for the protection of individual rights and freedoms through compelling YouTube videos and insightful interviews. Leibowitz is a versatile author, co-authoring the thought-provoking book titled “Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime.” This groundbreaking work delves into societal attitudes surrounding punishment and rehabilitation, shedding light on how misguided approaches have contributed to the rise of crime and recidivism.Additionally, he has authored the book “View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty,” offering an intimate portrayal of his personal journey while exploring the philosophies that influenced his transformation. For a deeper exploration of his ideas and insights, don’t miss the opportunity to read “Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime,” co-authored by Michael Leibowitz. And also, delve into his book “View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty.” Both books are available for purchase using the following links:“Down the Rabbit Hole”: https://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064X“View from a Cage”: https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj