The Rational Egoist

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

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

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

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

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

In this intriguing episode of "The Rational Egoist" podcast, Michael Leibowitz welcomes back James Valliant as they dive into the complex and contentious topic of whether animals have rights. This engaging conversation explores the nuances of animal rights, ethics, and the responsibilities of humans towards our fellow creatures. The discussion begins by contemplating the possibility that animals, like humans, may possess emotions such as empathy or guilt. James and Michael draw parallels between animals and incapacitated humans who require a power of attorney to make decisions on their behalf. They extend this analogy to children, whose rights evolve as they grow more rational, suggesting that a similar framework could be applied to animals. The hosts explore the idea that higher animals, such as elephants or dogs, might warrant greater rights than less complex creatures like cockroaches or fish. They emphasise that while animals should not be killed unnecessarily or made to suffer, there should be legal protections in place to ensure their well-being. However, the conversation acknowledges that humans do have the right to kill animals for sustenance, as long as it is done with ethical considerations. A pivotal aspect of their discussion centrers on the concept of a contractual agreement when acquiring a pet. This agreement would legally bind individuals to care for their pets responsibly, ensuring their welfare. However, they note that animals in the wild do not fall under the purview of such agreements, as they cannot be considered property. James Valliant shares his perspective as a former prosecutor, highlighting the importance of differentiating between helping drug addicts and women involved in prostitution and addressing animal abuse. He underscores that his focus has primarily been on aiding individuals rather than addressing animal-related cases. This episode offers a thought-provoking exploration of animal rights within the framework of rational ethics and individual responsibility. Michael Leibowitz is a renowned philosopher, political activist, and the esteemed host of the Rational Egoist podcast. Inspired by the philosophical teachings of Ayn Rand, Leibowitz passionately champions the principles of reason, rational self-interest, and individualism, seeking to empower others through his compelling work. His life's narrative exemplifies the transformative power of Ayn Rand's writings. Having faced challenging circumstances that led to a 25-year prison sentence, Leibowitz emerged from adversity by embracing the tenets of rational self-interest and moral philosophy put forth by Ayn Rand. This profound transformation propelled him to become an influential figure in the libertarian and Objectivist communities, motivating others to adopt reason, individualism, and self-interest in their own lives.Leibowitz is a versatile author, co-authoring the thought-provoking book titled "Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime." This groundbreaking work delves into societal attitudes surrounding punishment and rehabilitation, shedding light on how misguided approaches have contributed to the rise of crime and recidivism. Additionally, he has authored the book "View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty," offering an intimate portrayal of his personal journey while exploring the philosophies that influenced his transformation. For a deeper exploration of his ideas and insights, don't miss the opportunity to read "Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime," co-authored by Michael Leibowitz. And also, delve into his book "View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty." Both books are available for purchase using the following links:"Down the Rabbit Hole": https://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064X"View from a Cage": https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj

In this thought-provoking episode of "The Rational Egoist," host Michael Liebowitz is joined by Professor Andrew Jason Cohen, Director of the Philosophy, Politics, and Economics Program at Georgia State University. Known for his works on toleration, civil discourse, and applied ethics, Professor Cohen offers a unique perspective on the ethics of reparations for the descendants of slaves. During their conversation, Professor Cohen posits that the federal government perpetrated an egregious crime against slaves, the ramifications of which continue to affect their descendants. He argues that it's the government's moral obligation to make amends. Yet, the conversation takes an intriguing twist as they delve into the logistics of funding these reparations. The government, devoid of its own funds, would necessitate taxing its citizenry to finance this endeavour. But this raises serious ethical questions: Is it just to make present-day citizens shoulder the financial burden for crimes they didn't commit? Professor Cohen likens the situation to a corporation taxing its shareholders to pay off a debt, but Michael contests this comparison. Unlike a corporation, the government operates by the principle of coercion, effectively forcing individuals to part with their hard-earned money for a cause they might not endorse.Moreover, considering the existing financial woes of the United States, which is already trillions of dollars in debt, how ethical and prudent would it be to accrue even more debt? Join Michael and Professor Cohen as they dissect the complexities surrounding the ethics of reparations. This episode will challenge your perspectives and compel you to critically examine the morality of government-imposed financial burdens. Don't miss this illuminating discourse that navigates the intersection of ethics, politics, and economics. 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. For a deeper exploration of his ideas and insights, don't miss the opportunity to read "Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime," co-authored by Michael Leibowitz. And also, delve into his book "View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty." Both books are available for purchase using the following links:"Down the Rabbit Hole": https://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064X"View from a Cage": https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj

In this compelling episode of The Rational Egoist, host Michael Liebowitz welcomes Professor David Beito, a seasoned historian and academic powerhouse who holds the title of Professor Emeritus at the University of Alabama. As a Research Fellow at the Independent Institute, Beito brings a wealth of knowledge and insight to the conversation. The episode delves into the significant encroachments on the Bill of Rights made during Franklin D. Roosevelt's tenure as President of the United States. Through legislative acts and executive orders, FDR and his administration not only expanded federal powers but also pushed the boundaries of what was constitutionally acceptable. Professor Beito illuminates how the supposed virtues of the New Deal had detrimental impacts on individual liberties enshrined in the Bill of Rights. Measures like the National Industrial Recovery Act and the Social Security Act raised questions on the legitimate scope of federal involvement in the lives of citizens, and whether these actions were in line with the rights and freedoms that the United States was built upon. Michael and Professor Beito dissect these issues, leaving no stone unturned as they explore the often-overlooked consequences of FDR's policies. They also discuss the long-term ramifications that have extended well beyond FDR's time in office, setting a precedent for subsequent administrations to similarly impinge upon individual freedoms. Don't miss this robust discussion that not only delves into the history of one of America's most iconic leaders but also brings to light the need for constant vigilance when it comes to safeguarding our 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. For a deeper exploration of his ideas and insights, don't miss the opportunity to read "Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime," co-authored by Michael Leibowitz. And also, delve into his book "View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty." Both books are available for purchase using the following links: "Down the Rabbit Hole": https://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064X "View from a Cage": https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj

In this intellectually stimulating episode of "The Rational Egoist," host Michael Leibowitz sits down with Dr. Karras Lambert, who recently completed his Ph.D. in economics at George Mason University. They delve into the complex web of free trade, its misconceptions, and its relation to immigration and Austrian economics. Leibowitz and Dr. Lambert start by breaking down the term "free trade." Contrary to popular belief, free trade is not about government intervention or protectionism; it's about the unbridled ability to trade goods and services with anyone, without interference. The notion that government needs to help small businesses start up, according to Dr. Lambert, is anathema to the true concept of free trade. When businesses rely on government subsidies or handouts, they're not actually competing in the marketplace; instead, they're leaning on a crutch that won't support them in the long run. The conversation then turns to human society and how trade is fundamentally advantageous for its progress. Building on Ludwig von Mises's point about the productivity of the division of labour, they debunk the outdated mercantilist mindset that once measured a nation's wealth by its stockpile of gold. Dr. Lambert affirms that trade is most effective when individuals focus on their areas of expertise and exchange value freely, enhancing both their lives and the economy. However, the real essence of free trade is threatened when the government decides to confiscate a portion of your earnings. The discussion points out that this not only diminishes your ability to engage in future trades but also inherently devalues your labour. After all, what is taxation if not a forceful removal of the fruits of your labour and trade? Don't miss this episode if you're looking for a thorough understanding of free trade, its implications for immigration policies, and how it fits within the broader context of Austrian economics. 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

In this episode of "The Rational Egoist," host Michael Liebowitz engages in a thought-provoking discussion with guest Gerry Bourdeau on the much-debated topic: Is there objectivity in ethics, or is it all just whim and preference? While religions have long claimed a monopoly on moral standards, it was Ayn Rand who offered a reasoned, philosophical foundation for morality. But what if we remove the assumption of free will from the equation? Would ethics still hold ground? Tune in as we delve into these questions, challenging conventional notions of morality and rationality. Discussion Summary:Martin Seligman, in his book "Learned Optimism," alluded to religions as a basis for morality. However, it is Ayn Rand who provided a rigorous, logical framework for what morality truly is. The contentious question that served as the crux of the discussion between Michael and Gerry was whether ethics is rooted in objective standards or if it's merely driven by whim or individual preference. Gerry Bourdeau questioned the very notion of free will. According to him, if free will is non-existent, the idea of ethics or moral standards becomes null and void. On such a premise, the conversation would have reached an impasse because, without free will, there can be no ethics or moral values.In contrast, Michael Liebowitz posited life as the standard for morality. When individuals opt for life, every subsequent choice either enhances their life or diminishes it. Decisions dictate whether individuals are thriving or dying. Liebowitz further elaborated that humans possess consciousness and a rational mind that allows them to make choices. Animals, he argued, are driven mainly by instinct and innate behaviours. Ayn Rand's philosophical contributions were also highlighted. She bridged the "is-ought" gap by reasoning that what an organism is inherently determines what it ought to do. In other words, our nature as rational beings outlines a clear course for ethical behaviour, moving it from the realm of subjective preference to objective necessity. Don't miss this compelling episode as we navigate the labyrinth of ethics, free will, and the rational basis for making moral decisions. 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. 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