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The Rational Egoist

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Dec 16, 2023 • 48min

The Rational Egoist: Navigating Liberty with Jacob Hornberger

In this compelling episode of "The Rational Egoist," host Michael Liebowitz welcomes a distinguished guest, Jacob Hornberger, to delve deep into the currents of the liberty movement. As an accomplished attorney, author, and a prominent figure in politics, Jacob Hornberger has established himself as a notable leader, currently spearheading the Future of Freedom Foundation and vying for the Presidential nomination under the Libertarian Party banner. Throughout this thought-provoking conversation, Michael and Jacob engage in a critical examination of the Non-Aggression Principle, a cornerstone concept advocating that individuals should be free to pursue their own interests as long as they respect the same freedom for others. This principle, emblematic of libertarian thought, serves as a guiding framework for their dialogue. The discussion takes a significant turn as they explore the evolving landscape of the Libertarian Party. Jacob provides insightful commentary on the party's current trajectory, raising concerns about its deviation from the core tenets that once defined its philosophy, including adherence to the Non-Aggression Principle. Listeners are in for an intellectually stimulating session, as both host and guest navigate through the intricate dynamics of political ideologies, the essence of individual liberty, and the challenges faced in upholding these values in the ever-changing political arena. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the principles of liberty, the future of the Libertarian movement, and the role of individual rights in shaping political discourse. 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. 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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Dec 15, 2023 • 41min

The Rational Egoist: Unveiling Woke Hypocrisy in the Gaza Conflict

In this thought-provoking episode of "The Rational Egoist," host Michael Liebowitz is joined by esteemed philosopher and writer, Robert Tracinski. With a rich background in philosophy from the University of Chicago and over two decades of experience as a commentator and journalist, Tracinski brings a unique perspective to the table. This episode delves into the recent war in Gaza, exploring its complex layers and the evident hypocrisy within the woke movement's response to it. Tracinski, editor of Symposium and columnist for Discourse magazine, articulates how the conflict intertwines with radical nationalism and Marxist elements, spotlighting the irrationality rampant in the woke ideology. The discussion critically examines how this ideology often leads to the glorification of martyrdom, sacrificing rational discourse and human values on the altar of religious fanaticism. Liebowitz and Tracinski navigate these sensitive topics with a focus on logical analysis, shedding light on the often overlooked aspects of the conflict and the contradictory stances of the woke movement. This episode promises an intellectually stimulating journey, inviting listeners to question mainstream narratives and embrace a more reasoned, individualistic approach to understanding global conflicts. Join us on "The Rational Egoist" for a discussion that's not just about dissecting current events but about seeking the truth through a lens of rationality and individual rights. 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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Dec 12, 2023 • 1h 16min

The Rational Perspective: Exploring Free Will, Libertarians, and Ethics with Gerry Bourdeau

The Rational Perspective: Exploring Free Will, Libertarians, and Ethics with Gerry Bourdeau Join host Michael Liebowitz on "The Rational Perspective" as he engages in thought-provoking conversations with Gerry Bourdeau and delves into the realms of free will, pop-culture libertarians, the Mises Caucus, and argumentation ethics. In this episode, they tackle profound questions about human consciousness and the age-old debate of free will versus determinism. Discover the fascinating discourse that unfolds as they explore the paradoxical nature of free will and determinism. Is human agency an inherent part of our existence, or are we bound by deterministic forces? The irony lies in the very concept of determinism: if free will were non-existent, the notion of determinism itself wouldn't even arise.Tune in to "The Rational Perspective" for a compelling discussion that challenges conventional wisdom and offers fresh insights into the intricacies of human thought and ethics. It's a podcast where reason and rationality meet to explore the fundamental questions that shape our worldview. 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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Dec 9, 2023 • 45min

Unmasking Wokeism: A Rational Egoist's Perspective with Max Borders

Unmasking Wokeism: A Rational Egoist's Perspective Join host Michael Liebowitz as he delves into the intricate world of Wokeism, a psycho-social phenomenon that has been making waves in society. In this episode, Michael is joined by Max Borders, the Executive Director at Social Evolution and a prominent author in the realm of philosophy and economics. Together, they unravel the complexities of Wokeism without compromising on rational thinking. Max Borders, known for his thought-provoking work, including "Underthrow: How Jefferson's Dangerous Idea Will Spark a New Revolution," provides valuable insights into the origins and impact of Wokeism. Michael and Max engage in a profound analysis of this contemporary movement, all from a rational egoist standpoint, discussing how it relates to individual human rights and societal dynamics. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of Wokeism in a professional and insightful manner. 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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Dec 8, 2023 • 1h 13min

The Rational Egoist: Unraveling the French Revolution with Professor Stephen J. Miller

Welcome to "The Rational Egoist," the podcast where host Michael Liebowitz explores pivotal historical events from a rational and individualist perspective. In this episode, Michael is joined by Professor Stephen J. Miller, a distinguished scholar from The University of Alabama, Birmingham. Together, they delve deep into the intricacies of the French Revolution and its profound implications for individual liberty and free-market capitalism. Professor Miller, the author of renowned books such as "The Transition to Capitalism in Modern France" and "State and Society in 18th Century France," brings his expertise to the forefront. Through a captivating conversation, they dissect how the French peasants were burdened with heavy taxes imposed by the monarchs. These taxes extended to almost every aspect of daily life, from transactions to mills, as the monarchy exerted its dominance.Intriguingly, the nobles, clergy, and monarchs remained exempt from these taxes, claiming to protect the populace either through martial prowess or spiritual guidance. This stark inequality ultimately ignited the flames of revolution. Join us on this intellectually stimulating journey as we explore the historical context and the pivotal role of individual rights in shaping the course of the French Revolution. Discover why free-market capitalism, where individuals take charge of their destinies, emerges as the most honest and liberating system in the pursuit of rational self-interest.Tune in to "The Rational Egoist" and embark on a thoughtful exploration of history, individualism, and the principles that underpin our modern world. 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 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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Dec 7, 2023 • 56min

Exploring the Origins of Islam: A Rational Inquiry with Host Michael Liebowitz and Professor David Stephen Powers

Welcome to "The Rational Egoist," where we embark on a rational exploration of diverse topics, all while upholding the principles of individual rights and reason. I'm your host, Michael Liebowitz, CEO of Alexa Real Estate, and today, we delve into the rich history of Islam with our esteemed guest, Professor David Stephen Powers. David Stephen Powers, a distinguished Professor in the Department of Near Eastern Studies at Cornell University, joins us for an insightful conversation. We're here to unravel the historical roots of Islam, without bias or preconceptions, focusing solely on the facts and evidence. In this episode, we delve into the intriguing story of Muhammad, the founder of Islam. Professor Powers sheds light on how Muhammad received divine revelations and how these revelations ultimately formed the Quran. We explore the origins of this holy text and its significance in shaping the Islamic faith.Join us as we navigate this complex historical narrative with a commitment to rationality and intellectual honesty. No ideologies, just a genuine pursuit of knowledge. Welcome to "The Rational Egoist," where the quest for truth takes center 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. 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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Dec 6, 2023 • 26min

The Rational Egoist Podcast with Michael Liebowitz: Unveiling the Israeli Conflict with Lahav Harkov

In this thought-provoking episode of "The Rational Egoist Podcast," your host Michael Liebowitz delves into the complexities of the ongoing war in Israel with none other than Lahav Harkov. Lahav Harkov, a distinguished figure in the world of political journalism, brings her insightful perspective to the conversation. Lahav Harkov is the Senior Political Correspondent for "The Jewish Insider" and boasts a distinguished career, having previously held positions such as Senior Contributing Editor, Diplomatic Reporter, and Knesset Reporter for "The Jerusalem Post." Join us as Michael and Lahav engage in a candid and objective discussion, shedding light on the intricacies of the Israeli conflict without bias, in true Rational Egoist fashion. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that navigates through the political landscape of Israel, providing a professional and informative perspective on this complex issue. 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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Dec 3, 2023 • 1h 14min

A Conversation on Murray Rothbard with James Valliant

Special guest James Valliant joins host Michael Liebowitz for a fascinating discussion on Murray Rothbard's insights. They explore Rothbard's book 'What Has Government Done to Our Money' and his perspective on the government's role in the financial sphere. The conversation also delves into Rothbard's contributions as an economist, his relationship with Ayn Rand, and his views on individual rights and anarcho-capitalism.
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Nov 29, 2023 • 51min

Exploring Liberty: A Conversation with Jeffrey Tucker

Exploring Liberty: A Conversation with Jeffrey Tucker In this episode of "The Rational Egoist," your host, Michael Liebowitz, engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Jeffrey Tucker, the esteemed founder and president of the Brownstone Institute. Together, they delve into the captivating history of the liberty movement, shedding light on its evolution and the core principles it represents. Jeffrey Tucker, known for his prolific writing and authorship of influential books like "Liberty or Lockdown," offers profound insights into the ongoing struggle for individual rights and freedom. Join us for an enlightening conversation that transcends time and place, as we explore the essence of liberty through the lens of rational egoism. 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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Nov 25, 2023 • 45min

Understanding the Impact of Altruism in Geopolitics with Peter Schwartz

In this episode of "The Rational Egoist," your host, Michael Liebowitz, delves into a thought-provoking discussion with Peter Schwartz, a Distinguished Fellow at the Ayn Rand Institute. Together, they explore the concept of altruism and its significant role in shaping perceptions and policies, particularly in the context of the Israel-Palestine conflict. Altruism, as Peter Schwartz explains, goes beyond simple acts of kindness or benevolence; it fundamentally revolves around the idea that self-sacrifice is the highest virtue in life. This worldview places the demands and needs of others above one's own, purely because they are different individuals. Listen in as they dissect the intricate layers of altruism, highlighting how it requires individuals to give their resources to those who may not deserve it, solely based on the principle of need. This often leads to a conflict between justice and altruism, as the latter demands the sacrifice of justice to fulfill perceived needs. The conversation also sheds light on how society often overlooks the reasons behind these needs, emphasizing that individuals are responsible for their own lives. In an altruistic framework, the sole focus is on the existence of needs, disregarding the context or individual responsibility. Join us in this insightful episode as we explore how altruism influences our views on complex geopolitical issues like the Israel-Hamas conflict and the moral considerations given to those who can support themselves versus those who rely on altruistic aid. Discover the profound implications of altruism on society and politics in this thought-provoking discussion on "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. 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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