
The Rational Egoist
The Rational Egoist podcast aims to explore the philosophy of rational egoism and how it can be applied in our daily lives. Hosted by Michael Liebowitz and produced by Xenia Ioannou with experts in the field of philosophy, psychology, and economics, the podcast will provide listeners with a wealth of knowledge and insight into the benefits of rational egoism.
Copyright of all audio, printed material and colour schemes including logos, owned exclusively by Michael Liebowitz and Xenia Ioannou and cannot be reproduced without prior written permission
Latest episodes

Nov 1, 2023 • 37min
The Rational Perspective: A Conversation with Razi Ginsberg, Director of the Ayn Rand Centre UK
The Rational Perspective: A Conversation with Razi Ginsberg, Director of the Ayn Rand Centre UK
Join host Michael Liebowitz on "The Rational Perspective" as he engages in an insightful conversation with Razi Ginsberg, who serves as the Director of the Ayn Rand Centre UK. In this episode, they delve into the world of Ayn Rand's philosophy without explicitly mentioning it, exploring the profound impact her ideas have on individuals' understanding of reality and human nature.
Discover why people often react to Ayn Rand's work with a sense of clarity and recognition, as she articulates fundamental truths that resonate with their innate understanding. From philosophy to real-life applications, this podcast provides a thoughtful exploration of rationality and individualism while avoiding any compromise on personal liberty. Dive into the rational egoist perspective in this engaging episode.
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

Oct 31, 2023 • 25min
Hope: A Rational Perspective on Mental Health with Jennifer Gerlach
Hope: A Rational Perspective on Mental HealthIn this episode of "The Rational Egoist," your host Michael Liebowitz is joined by the esteemed psychotherapist Jennifer Gerlach. Jennifer is an expert in the field of mental health, specialising in psychosis, mood disorders, and the well-being of young adults. She's also the author of the insightful book, "The Psychosis and Mental Health Recovery Workbook: Activities for Young Adults from ACT, DBT, and Recovery-Oriented CBT."
Michael and Jennifer delve into a crucial and often overlooked topic: hope. They explore the profound significance of hope in our lives and its direct connection to mental health. In a world where hope can sometimes feel scarce, they shed light on the importance of maintaining a realistic sense of hope.
The conversation goes deep into why losing hope can lead individuals to give up and even contemplate suicide.Join us as we navigate the delicate balance between optimism and realism, uncovering the vital role hope plays in our mental well-being.
Discover why hopelessness can be learned, and gain valuable insights into fostering a healthier, more rational perspective on hope in our lives. Tune in to "The Rational Egoist" for an enlightening conversation that combines expertise with a rational approach to this essential aspect of human existence.
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

Oct 24, 2023 • 1h 24min
The Benefits and Hazards of the Writings of Nathaniel Branden, With James Stevens Valliant.
In this episode of the rational egoist, the psychology of self-esteem takes centre stage. Both Michael and his guest, James Stevens Valliant, recognise Nathaniel Branden as a pioneering figure in the realm of cognitive psychology.
The conversation delves into the profound influence of our thoughts on our actions, emphasising that what we think significantly shapes our consciousness. It's asserted that a comprehensive study of human consciousness is incomplete without a thorough examination of thinking and rationality.
Emotions, often implicit, are revealed as evaluations. These emotions, whether rooted in childhood experiences, preverbal moments, or traumatic events, profoundly affect our subconscious. Even positive emotions and early interactions with parents play a role in shaping our emotional landscape.
The dialogue underscores that our perceptions of the world around us lead to conclusions that, in turn, mould our consciousness. Central to this discussion is the concept that the most crucial evaluation we make is our self-assessment. Consequently, all psychology, as discussed, is intricately linked to self-esteem. The example of social anxiety is used to illustrate how self-evaluation influences our actions and feelings.A key takeaway is the assertion that self-esteem is not merely a matter of perception; it must be earned through introspection and meaningful actions. Nathaniel Branden's work is highlighted as instrumental in putting self-esteem at the forefront, with his deep connections to Ayn Rand's philosophy.
Additionally, the podcast emphasises the importance of examining healthy psychology and the functioning of a sound mind, not just focusing on issues related to mental health. It's posited that emotions can either contribute to mental well-being or drive one towards mental illness. Since we inherently value ourselves, the discussion encourages positive self-evaluation and nurturing high self-esteem.
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.
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

Oct 23, 2023 • 1h
Speaking of Individual Rights: A Conversation With Libertarian Party Presidential hopeful, Mike ter Maat.
In this episode of "The Rational Egoist," host Michael Leibowitz engages in a thought-provoking conversation with the distinguished Mike ter Maat, a leading candidate for the Libertarian Party's Presidential nomination.
Together, they delve into the intricate realm of individual rights, autonomy, and rational decision-making.The dialogue commences with a fundamental inquiry: Does the government hold any legitimate authority to make decisions on behalf of individuals? Mike argues that, even in a hypothetical scenario where the government exhibits unerring competence, it still lacks the moral standing to make choices for individuals. He underscores the sanctity of individual free will and autonomy, asserting that people inherently possess the right to make their own decisions, even when those choices are deemed incorrect.
Furthermore, they discuss the imperative of allowing individuals to learn from the consequences of their decisions without government intervention.
The conversation then pivots to the contentious topic of intellectual property within a laissez-faire capitalist system. While some advocate for the abolition of intellectual property protections to thwart monopolies, Michael and Mike ter Maat meticulously examine this notion. They contend that intellectual property constitutes valid property deserving legal safeguarding. They emphasize the importance of upholding the intellectual property rights of individuals who invest time and effort in creating intellectual assets.Join us for this enlightening episode as Michael Leibowitz engages in a profound exploration of individual rights, personal autonomy, and rational self-interest with his guest, Mike ter Maat, on "The Rational Egoist Podcast."
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.
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

Oct 20, 2023 • 50min
Exploring Capitalism, Anarcho-Capitalism, and Individual Rights with Keith Knight
Exploring Capitalism, Anarcho-Capitalism, and Individual Rights with Keith Knight
Hosted by Michael Leibowitz, "The Rational Egoist" podcast delves into critical discussions about capitalism and anarcho-capitalism, offering fresh insights and perspectives. In this episode, Michael is joined by Keith Knight, the managing editor at The Libertarian Institute and the host of The Don't Tread on Anyone Podcast.During their engaging conversation, Michael and Keith explore the fundamental principles of capitalism and anarcho-capitalism.
They emphasize the significance of human rights and individual rights, underlining how capitalism thrives on voluntary exchanges and the recognition of these rights. The duo also dives into the non-aggression principle, highlighting its role as an axiom in their philosophical framework.In the spirit of individual liberty, Michael and Keith advocate for a system where people have the freedom to make choices, including signing up for retirement plans voluntarily. They stress their belief that no one should face incarceration for not contributing to social security or supporting others financially. Tune in to "The Rational Egoist" for thought-provoking discussions that challenge conventional perspectives on economics 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

Oct 17, 2023 • 38min
The Rational Egoist: Exploring Freedom of Speech and Social Media with Thomas A. Berry
In this episode of "The Rational Egoist," your host, Michael Leibowitz, engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Thomas A. Berry, a distinguished research fellow at the Cato Institute's Robert A. Levy Center for Constitutional Studies and the editor in chief of the Cato Supreme Court Review.
Join Michael and Thomas as they delve into the intricate world of social media and its relationship with the First Amendment. The discussion begins with a close examination of Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act of 1996, shedding light on how it shields social media platforms from defamation lawsuits, even when they host contentious content. The conversation dissects the reasoning behind this protection, especially in a landscape where social media has become a dominant force in information dissemination.
The podcast also navigates the nuanced territory of freedom of speech. Michael and Thomas address the fundamental difference between an individual's right to express their views and the use of private platforms to do so. They underscore the importance of distinguishing between freedom of speech and the obligation of private businesses to provide a platform for all viewpoints.
Tune in to gain valuable insights into the complexities of these issues. Discover why the boundaries between individual rights and private property rights are often blurred in today's digital age. Join us on "The Rational Egoist" for a thoughtful exploration of these critical topics.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

Oct 15, 2023 • 35min
Streamlining Justice: Unraveling Legal Complexity with Judge Thomas G. Moukawsher
In this thought-provoking episode of "The Rational Egoist," your host Michael Leibowitz engages in a candid conversation with former Connecticut Superior Court Judge, Thomas G. Moukawsher. Together, they delve deep into the intricacies of the U.S. legal system and its tendency to be overly complex.
Judge Moukawsher, a seasoned legal expert and author of "Common Flaw: Needless Complexity in the Courts and 50 Ways to Reduce It," brings valuable insights to the table. The discussion revolves around the essence of court cases, which often seem to punish individuals for not aligning with societal expectations. They shed light on how, in the pursuit of justice, a significant amount of time is squandered.
These legal proceedings frequently involve maneuvers to avoid responsibility, such as jurisdiction disputes and motions for various technicalities, leading to prolonged court battles. Michael and Judge Moukawsher also tackle the issue of legal jargon and unnecessary complexity within the legal profession, highlighting how these factors contribute to prolonged court cases and billable hours.
Tune in to "The Rational Egoist" for a stimulating conversation that unravels the complexities of the legal system and explores the fundamental concept of individual responsibility in contracts and agreements. It's a podcast episode that will leave you questioning the status quo and seeking a more efficient path to justice.
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

Oct 15, 2023 • 46min
The Rational Egoist: Unmasking the Myths of Self-Sacrifice
Join host Michael Liebowitz in another thought-provoking episode of "The Rational Egoist" as he delves deep into the crucial topic of guilt and the hidden harm perpetuated by the ethic of self-sacrifice.
In this enlightening conversation, Michael is joined by special guest Andrea Mathews, a distinguished cognitive and transpersonal therapist, internet radio host, and the author of "Letting Go of Good: Dispel the Myth of Goodness to Find Your Genuine Self."
In this episode, Michael and Andrea explore the subtle yet significant differences between remorse and guilt. Remorse, as they discuss, is the genuine feeling of regret for causing harm to another human being, a sentiment deeply rooted in empathy and compassion. On the other hand, guilt can often be a phantom, haunting individuals for choosing self-interest over external expectations, like mowing a grandmother's lawn.
Andrea Mathews sheds light on how societal norms and upbringing often lead individuals down a path of selflessness, where the self becomes subservient to the needs and demands of others, resulting in an empty vessel devoid of personal evaluation, desires, and identity.
Discover the importance of reclaiming your authentic self and how it aligns with the rational egoist perspective.Tune in to "The Rational Egoist" for a captivating discussion that challenges conventional wisdom and encourages listeners to embrace their genuine selves while navigating the complex landscape of guilt, self-sacrifice, and individuality.
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

Oct 12, 2023 • 50min
The Rational Egoist: Dissecting the Collective Mindset on the Hamas Attack with Max Borders
The Rational Egoist: Dissecting the Collective Mindset on the Hamas Attack with Max Borders
In this thought-provoking episode of The Rational Egoist, host Michael Liebowitz sits down with Max Borders, founder and Executive Director of Social Evolution and author of "Social Singularity" and "Underthrow." The two delve into the deeply troubling reactions to the recent Hamas attack on Israel, particularly the rise of a collectivist viewpoint that disturbingly suggests Israel somehow "deserved it."
Navigating through the maze of social media commentary, they unpack the dangerous ideology that informs such perspectives—most surprisingly, not from fringe groups like neo-Nazis but from mainstream left-leaning individuals. This episode explores the lack of compassion for individual human suffering when those individuals belong to a group that's been collectively labeled as an enemy.
While acknowledging the imperfections of both the Israeli and United States governments, and questioning the U.S.'s role in funding conflicts, Michael and Max discuss the flawed reasoning behind drawing moral equivalences in complex geopolitical issues. Tune in for an incisive discussion that tackles the peril of collectivist thought, questions the ethics of government actions, and addresses the nihilistic sentiments seeping into public consciousness as events unfold.
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

Oct 10, 2023 • 48min
The Rational Egoist: Unpacking the Roots of White Fragility with Kimathi Watson
In this gripping episode of The Rational Egoist, host Michael Liebowitz dives into the precarious topic of racial issues with renowned social commentator Kimathi Watson. It's a conversation that holds no punches and casts aside the usual sensitivity and fear surrounding race dialogues. The duo delves into the concept of "white fragility," dissecting why many white individuals hesitate to discuss or engage in meaningful conversations about race.
A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the chilling effects of 'cancel culture.' In a society where the fear of saying the 'wrong thing' can result in career-impacting consequences, many choose to remain silent, perpetuating ignorance and misunderstanding. Watson and Liebowitz assert that this reluctance to engage in genuine dialogue does more harm than good, perpetuating a culture of evasion rather than one of enlightenment.
Though the audio quality leaves something to be desired, the intellectual calibre of the conversation more than compensates for it. The episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in diving deep into the rational aspects of racial discourse, untainted by emotionalism or political correctness.
For those who'd like to further explore the perspectives of Kimathi Watson, here's a link to his book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B8GP8MHJ?ref_=cm_sw_r_apan_dp_2XCJKG24HQHB5F5ESG8G&fbclid=IwAR1FKeRhlYP2KtMbbqGXPoTKWe9d7qlwuWtPsR2_RQwckjO9zDLda9Zw3BwDon't miss this enlightening episode.
Tune in, think deeply, and challenge your own preconceptions.
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