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The Rational Egoist

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Jan 29, 2024 • 37min

The Rational Egoist: Unraveling the Impact of Parental Dishonesty with Professor Kang Lee

In this thought-provoking episode of "The Rational Egoist," host Michael Liebowitz engages in a compelling dialogue with Professor Kang Lee, a distinguished scholar from the Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education. Professor Lee, renowned for his extensive research in developmental psychology, delves into the intricate dynamics of parental lying and its profound implications on child development.Throughout the conversation, Michael and Professor Lee explore the complex ethical and psychological landscapes shaped by parental dishonesty. They examine how seemingly benign untruths, often perceived as protective or nurturing, can inadvertently sow seeds of distrust and shape a child's perception of honesty and morality. This episode not only sheds light on the unintended consequences of these common parental practices but also challenges listeners to reflect on the essence of truth-telling in nurturing environments. The discussion also ventures into the broader societal impacts, questioning how these early experiences with dishonesty influence a child's future interactions and moral compass. Professor Lee brings a wealth of knowledge, sharing insights from his groundbreaking research and real-life examples, making this a must-listen for parents, educators, and anyone interested in the ethical development of the younger generation. Join us on "The Rational Egoist" for an enlightening journey into the heart of one of parenting's most understated challenges. 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. 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
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Jan 23, 2024 • 28min

The Rational Egoist: Exploring Isabel Paterson with James Stevens Valliant - Part 2

In this captivating 2 part episode of "The Rational Egoist," host Michael Liebowitz delves into the dynamic world of libertarianism with his esteemed guest, James Stevens Valliant, author and renowned expert in political philosophy. This first part of their in-depth discussion shines a light on one of the pivotal figures in libertarian thought, Isabel Paterson. Often regarded as one of the "three furies of libertarianism," Paterson's influential work and unwavering advocacy for individual freedom have left an indelible mark on the movement. Michael and James embark on a journey through Paterson's life, exploring her unique perspectives and contributions to libertarianism. They unravel the threads of her philosophy, examining how her ideas challenge conventional notions and champion the individual's rights and responsibilities. Listeners will be treated to a rich tapestry of historical context, philosophical insights, and thought-provoking analysis. This episode not only celebrates Paterson's legacy but also provides a critical examination of her influence on contemporary libertarian thought and its relevance in today's society. Join Michael Liebowitz and James Stevens Valliant as they pay tribute to Isabel Paterson, uncovering the essence of her philosophy and its enduring impact on the pursuit of personal liberty and rational self-interest. 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. 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
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Jan 23, 2024 • 29min

The Rational Egoist: Exploring Isabel Paterson with James Stevens Valliant - Part 1

In this captivating 2 part episode of "The Rational Egoist," host Michael Liebowitz delves into the dynamic world of libertarianism with his esteemed guest, James Stevens Valliant, author and renowned expert in political philosophy. This first part of their in-depth discussion shines a light on one of the pivotal figures in libertarian thought, Isabel Paterson.Often regarded as one of the "three furies of libertarianism," Paterson's influential work and unwavering advocacy for individual freedom have left an indelible mark on the movement. Michael and James embark on a journey through Paterson's life, exploring her unique perspectives and contributions to libertarianism. They unravel the threads of her philosophy, examining how her ideas challenge conventional notions and champion the individual's rights and responsibilities. Listeners will be treated to a rich tapestry of historical context, philosophical insights, and thought-provoking analysis. This episode not only celebrates Paterson's legacy but also provides a critical examination of her influence on contemporary libertarian thought and its relevance in today's society. Join Michael Liebowitz and James Stevens Valliant as they pay tribute to Isabel Paterson, uncovering the essence of her philosophy and its enduring impact on the pursuit of personal liberty and rational self-interest.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. 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
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Jan 23, 2024 • 1h 32min

The Rational Egoist: Unpacking the Essence of Political Authority

The Rational Egoist: Unpacking the Essence of Political Authority In this compelling video, Michael Liebowitz delves into the intricate debate over the foundation of political authority and its role in society. Featuring an insightful discussion from the "Argue with Me" podcast, exploring he critical question: Can anarchy effectively safeguard against external invasions, or is a structured government essential for maintaining order and justice?Distinguished thinkers in their fields, engage in a thought-provoking debate, scrutinizing the necessity of a government that not only legislates but also impartially enforces laws across all individuals. They argue that a proper government, acting within its defined boundaries, is paramount in upholding the rule of law and serving as the ultimate arbitrator in societal disputes. Through this episode, we aim to provide a nuanced understanding of the role of government in ensuring stability and fairness, while also considering the implications of anarchical systems. Join us as we unravel the complexities surrounding the basis of political authority, its implications for individual rights, and the balance between freedom and governance. This is a must-listen for anyone interested in political philosophy, the nature of governance, and the debate over the ideal structure of societal authority. 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. 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
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Jan 22, 2024 • 27min

The Rational Egoist: Embracing Mistakes for Personal Growth with Dr. Steven Stosny

Welcome to another insightful episode of "The Rational Egoist," hosted by Michael Liebowitz. In this episode, we are thrilled to have Dr. Steven Stosny, a renowned psychologist and founder of Compassion Power. Dr. Stosny's expertise spans across various domains including anger management, domestic violence, and compassionate parenting, making him a celebrated author of impactful books like “Empowered Love” and “Soar Above.”Today, Dr. Stosny delves into an intriguing and often overlooked aspect of personal development: the benefits of making mistakes. Drawing from his extensive experience and research, he articulates how embracing our errors can lead to profound personal growth and stronger emotional resilience. We explore how making mistakes, far from being mere setbacks, are crucial stepping stones in our journey of self-improvement and emotional intelligence. Dr. Stosny sheds light on how understanding and learning from our mistakes can empower us, enhancing our relationships and overall well-being. This episode is not just about acknowledging our flaws but about transforming them into powerful tools for personal empowerment and growth. Join us as we navigate through these thought-provoking insights with Dr. Stosny, and discover how to harness the most profound part of your brain under stress. It's an episode that promises to change your perspective on mistakes and equip you with strategies to turn them into your greatest assets. Don't miss this opportunity to learn, grow, and transform with "The Rational Egoist." 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. 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
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Jan 19, 2024 • 33min

The Rational Egoist: Cultivating the Self with Dr. George S. Everly Jr.

In this enlightening episode of "The Rational Egoist," host Michael Liebowitz welcomes a distinguished guest, Dr. George S. Everly Jr., an acclaimed expert in the fields of stress management, psychological crisis intervention, and human resilience. Dr. Everly, who holds esteemed positions at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, brings his extensive knowledge and experience, gained from authoring over 20 books on these critical subjects. Throughout the discussion, Dr. Everly delves into the concept of self-cultivation, a process deeply rooted in the understanding and enhancement of one's own mental and emotional well-being. He shares insights from his prolific research and teaching, offering practical strategies for individuals to build resilience and manage stress effectively in their personal and professional lives. Listeners will be invited to explore the intricate relationship between the self and its environment, understanding how external pressures can shape our internal landscapes. The conversation aims to empower individuals with the tools and perspectives necessary to navigate life's challenges with strength and clarity. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in personal development, mental health, and building a resilient mindset. Dr. Everly's expertise, coupled with Michael Liebowitz's engaging hosting style, makes for a truly informative and inspiring session. Tune in to "The Rational Egoist" for a deep dive into the art of self-cultivation with one of the field's most respected voices. 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. 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
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Jan 18, 2024 • 30min

Empires and Republics: Tracing the American Path" - The Rational Egoist with Michael Liebowitz featuring Jonathan Leaf

Empires and Republics: Tracing the American Path" - The Rational Egoist with Michael Liebowitz featuring Jonathan Leaf In this thought-provoking episode of "The Rational Egoist," host Michael Liebowitz welcomes Jonathan Leaf, a distinguished playwright, screenwriter, author, and journalist hailing from New York City. Jonathan, celebrated for his off-Broadway play "The Caterers," which garnered a nomination for Best Full-Length Original Script in the Innovative Theater Awards (2005-2006), brings his unique perspective to a fascinating historical comparison. Today's discussion delves into an intriguing question: Does the modern United States more closely mirror the Roman Empire or the Roman Republic? This comparison is not merely an academic exercise but a lens through which we can examine contemporary American society, politics, and culture. Michael and Jonathan explore the parallels and contrasts between these historical epochs and the present-day U.S., drawing on Jonathan's extensive background in theatre and literature to enrich the conversation. Listeners can expect a blend of historical analysis and contemporary critique, as the duo dissects aspects of governance, societal values, and cultural trends that echo the Roman experience. The dialogue will not shy away from the controversial yet vital topics of individualism, self-interest, and the role of the state, all examined through a lens that respects the sovereignty of the individual and the pursuit of rational self-interest. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the undercurrents shaping our world today, drawing from the past to illuminate the future. Join Michael and Jonathan in this engaging journey through time and thought, where history and modernity converge to offer insights into the American identity and its place in the world stage. 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
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Jan 15, 2024 • 54min

Exploring the Shadows of the Founding Fathers: The Anti-Federalist Perspective with Prof. Michael J. Faber

Exploring the Shadows of the Founding Fathers: The Anti-Federalist Perspective with Prof. Michael J. Faber In this enlightening episode of "The Rational Egoist," host Michael Liebowitz delves into the often-overlooked realm of the Anti-Federalists with esteemed guest Professor Michael J. Faber. As an Associate Professor of Political Science at Texas State University and author of "Our Federalist Constitution: The Founders’ Expectations and Contemporary American Government," Professor Faber brings a wealth of knowledge to the discussion. Together, they unravel the intricate views and lasting impact of the Anti-Federalists, shedding light on how their skepticism and critiques of the early American government framework continue to echo in contemporary politics. Tune in for a thought-provoking journey back to the roots of American political thought, examining the balance between federal power and states’ rights, and the ongoing relevance of these 18th-century debates in today’s political landscape. 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
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Jan 11, 2024 • 32min

The Rational Egoist: Navigating the Nuances of Child Labor with Benjamin Seevers

In this thought-provoking episode of "The Rational Egoist," host Michael Liebowitz is joined by Benjamin Seevers, a PhD student at West Virginia University with a BA in economics from Grove City College. Together, they delve into the contentious and often misunderstood topic of child labor. This episode challenges the conventional narrative surrounding child labor, exploring the idea that rather than perpetuating poverty, child labor in certain contexts can be seen as a form of job creation. Benjamin Seevers brings his economic expertise to the table, discussing how child labor fits into the broader economic landscape, especially in developing countries where educational and economic opportunities may be limited. Liebowitz and Seevers engage in a nuanced conversation, examining how child labor, while often viewed through a negative lens, can be a complex issue with no clear-cut solutions. They discuss the role of economic necessity, the impact of global market demands, and how child labor can sometimes be a stepping stone to better opportunities for families in dire economic situations.The discussion also touches on the ethical implications and the importance of context when evaluating the role of child labor in society. By exploring this issue from an angle that acknowledges the realities of economic hardship and the need for pragmatic solutions, "The Rational Egoist" aims to shed light on a topic that is often oversimplified in mainstream discourse.Tune in for an enlightening discussion that pushes the boundaries of conventional thinking and invites listeners to consider the multifaceted aspects of child labor in the global economy. 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
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Jan 9, 2024 • 37min

Unearthing America's Forgotten Founders with Professor J.Jackson Barlow

Unearthing America's Forgotten Founders with Professor J.Jackson Barlow Join host Michael Liebowitz on "The Rational Egoist" podcast as he delves deep into the life and contributions of Gouverneur Morris, one of the most underrated founding fathers of the United States. In this episode, Professor J. Jackson Barlow, the Charles A. Dana Professor of Politics and Director of the Program in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics at Juniata College, Huntington, Pennsylvania, joins the conversation. Together, they shed light on the enigmatic figure of Gouverneur Morris, exploring his profound impact on the shaping of America's early history. Tune in for an insightful discussion that goes beyond the mainstream narratives, uncovering the intellectual foundations of individualism and liberty in the nation's founding. 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. 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

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