The Rational Egoist

The Rational Egoist - Public Choice Economics and Political Ignorance with Max Borders In this thought-provoking episode of "The Rational Egoist" with host Michael Leibowitz, special guest Max Borders, former director of content at The Foundation for Economic Education, and Executive Director at Social Evolution, delves into the realm of Public Choice Economics, the decline of empires, and the concept of a constitution of consent. The conversation centrers around how government intervention can disrupt natural supply and demand curves in the economy, limiting competition and hindering market responsiveness to actual consumer demands. The discussion also touches on the phenomenon of "rational ignorance," where the average person lacks the time, incentive, or inclination to delve into the complexities of politics and economics. They explore how this widespread ignorance can lead to irrational decision-making, impacting society and policymaking. Moreover, they explore the intriguing concept of "rational irrationality," where people have some knowledge about certain economic principles but choose to ignore them because the consequences do not directly affect them. This behaviour often manifests in the realm of politics and policies, with politicians engaging in virtue signalling, promising minimum wage increases without adequately addressing their potential adverse effects on employment. Max’s contest: https://underthrow.substack.com/p/the-constitution-of-consent-contest 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

Join host Michael Liebowitz in an engaging conversation with author James Valliant on his groundbreaking book, "Creating Christ: How Roman Emperors Invented Christianity." Discover the boldly original thesis that Christianity was created by the Roman state, and the New Testament was designed as Roman propaganda to pacify rebellious Jews. Explore the clash of cultures between the Romans and the fanatically monotheistic Jews, and how this conflict shaped the foundations of Christianity. Delve into the evidence within and beyond the New Testament, unraveling the intricate political and ideological campaign orchestrated by the Romans to assimilate the hostile Hebrew religion and establish a form of Judaism that would eventually become Christianity. Uncover the surprising symbolism and historical connections that provide new insights into the genesis of one of the world's most influential religions. "The Rational Egoist" podcast delivers thought-provoking discussions and intellectual explorations into the origins of ideas and belief systems that have shaped humanity's history. 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 episode, Dr. Andrew Bernstein, a distinguished advocate of Ayn Rand's Objectivism and a renowned philosopher with a PhD from the City University of New York, returns to continue his riveting conversation with Michael. Together, they delve deep into the lives and ideas of three philosophers: Plato, Thomas Aquinas, and Descartes.Unraveling the historical context, the duo examines how these philosophical giants, despite contributing valuable ideas, became perceived as villains due to their involvement and influence in Christianity and mysticism. They explore the notion of rationalism and its potential pitfalls when divorced from observable reality. The discussion uncovers how their beliefs often contained contradictions and how their ideas led to a disconnect between consciousness and the tangible world. The conversation takes a poignant turn as Michael and Dr. Bernstein shed light on the dark ages, a period when Christianity held power and the profound damage it caused to knowledge preservation, including book burnings, destruction of libraries, and the suppression of rational philosophy. The lingering effects of mysticism in contemporary society are also explored, while a glimmer of hope emerges - rational philosophy as the way forward. By discussing influential figures from the past, the podcast aims to inspire listeners to critically analyse ideas, embrace rational thinking, and find a path towards a more enlightened future. 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 endeavorus, 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 with Michael Liebowitz: Unraveling Controversies, Hypocrisy, and Liberty with Reese on the Radio Join host Michael Liebowitz in "The Rational Egoist," a thought-provoking podcast where rationality and critical thinking reign supreme. In this episode, Michael engages in a compelling conversation with radio show host Reese from "Reese on the Radio." They delve into the controversy surrounding Jason Aldean's new song, "Try That in Small Town," and explore the nuanced perspectives on race and violence. The discussion takes an intriguing turn as they explore the concept of hypocrisy prevalent on both the left and the right. Michael and Reese examine the idea of permitted bigotry within society, where certain groups are shielded from criticism while others are not afforded the same courtesy. They tackle the contentious issue of free speech and its boundaries, particularly in relation to protected classes like the LGBQT community and black people. Furthermore, the podcast sheds light on the curious case of groups claiming to be libertarians but potentially harbouring hidden agendas. The spotlight falls on Moms for Liberty, prompting an insightful analysis of their true stance on liberty and their approach towards pushing personal agendas. Tune in to "The Rational Egoist" as Michael Liebowitz and his guests take you on a journey of intellectual exploration, seeking clarity in an increasingly complex world, and questioning conventional wisdom with unwavering reason and objectivity. 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

Join host Michael Liebowitz in an engaging discussion with esteemed philosopher Andrew Bernstein as they delve into the enthralling history of philosophy and its remarkable heroes and villains. Dr. Andrew Bernstein, a Ph.D. recipient from the Graduate School of the City University of New York and author of the compelling book "Capitalism Unbound: The Incontestable Moral Case for Individual Rights," brings his profound knowledge and expertise to the conversation. The journey begins by exploring the roots of philosophy as a systematic attempt to apply reason to reality. Driven by empirical evidence, the first philosopher, Thales, astutely observed the three states of water - liquid, gas, and solid - leading to his revolutionary conclusion that everything was made of water.Delving further, Michael and Andrew uncover the pivotal role played by Socrates, who introduced moral philosophy based on rational, non-faith-based reasoning. Before Socrates, disputes over justice were resolved through brute strength, leading to chaotic outcomes. But Socrates' rigorous definitions and ethical inquiries laid the groundwork for the beginning of moral philosophy, ushering in a new era of critical thinking. Throughout the discussion, they dissect the intriguing Euthyphro dilemma - a perplexing question about the nature of goodness and its relation to the divine. They contrast religious ethics, often considered arbitrary, with the rational approach to morality advocated by Socrates.Additionally, the conversation touches upon the enigmatic figure of Plato, whose belief in a mystical world guiding all things challenged the ability to understand reality through reason. This mystical worldview contributed to the notion that the average person was incapable of independent thought, a stance that clashed with Socrates' emphasis on empowering individuals through rational thinking. As the podcast unfolds, Michael and Andrew shed light on the trial of Socrates and the Athenians' perception of his provocative approach. Socrates' relentless pursuit of moral questions and his unwavering faith in human reasoning led to accusations of making people think - a testament to the power of philosophy and its potential to disrupt the status quo.Prepare to embark on an intellectual journey through the annals of philosophy, exploring its towering heroes like Thales and Socrates, and contemplating the contrasting views of mystical thinkers like Plato. This captivating conversation will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the power of reason in shaping human thought and the timeless quest for truth. 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

Healing Through Forgiveness: An Inspiring Conversation with Jill Harrison Join host Michael Leibowitz as he engages in a profound conversation with Jill Harrison on tragedy, forgiveness, and prison reform. In this episode, Jill shares her deeply personal story of losing her daughter to a domestic violence incident in 2019. Despite the immense pain and grief, Jill found the strength to seek closure through direct communication with her daughter's killer, a process that provided her with details she couldn't obtain through the legal system. Jill's journey towards forgiveness is a testament to her belief in the power of self-preservation. Realising that harbouring bitterness and resentment would only rob her of happiness and negatively impact her other children, she made the courageous choice to let go and move forward. Through her own experiences, she advocates for forgiveness as a way to heal and reclaim one's life. Beyond her personal story, Jill is a strong advocate for prison reform, recognising that hurt people often end up hurting others. She emphasises the importance of rehabilitation as a means to protect society and prevent future tragedies. Her efforts extend to her work with the nonprofit organisation she is starting, called Adventures in Purpose, which aims to educate and change lives. Don't miss this thought-provoking episode as Michael delves deep into Jill's remarkable journey and explores the transformative power of forgiveness and the significance of a reformed prison system. For more information about Jill Harrison, you can find her books on learning disabilities, including "C.I.A.R.A.: Change Integrity Adjust Realistically Achieve," "Understanding Me," and "People Sorting," on Amazon via this link: Amazon link.To connect with Jill on Instagram, visit her page: Instagram link.If you're interested in supporting Jill's nonprofit organisation, Adventures in Purpose, which aims to reach more people, teach valuable lessons, and change lives, you can contribute through her GoFundMe page: GoFundMe link.For inquiries or to contact Jill Harrison Adventures in Purpose, you can reach her via email at adventuresinpurpose@gmail.com. Links: Amazon: Adventures in Purpose Series URL: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C9S7QZM4/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2I3DYE0TZEJ99&keywords=jill+harrison+learning+disabilities&qid=1689625789&sprefix=jill+harrison+learning+disabilities%2Caps%2C178&sr=8-1 Instagram: Adventures in Purpose URL: https://instagram.com/adventures_in_purpose?igshid=MzNlNGNkZWQ4Mg== GoFundMe: Domestic Violence Education URL: https://www.gofundme.com/f/r59dcd-domestic-violence-education?utm_campaign=p_lico+share-sheet&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=customer Email: adventuresinpurpose@gmail.com (for contacting Jill Harrison and Adventures in Purpose) Michael Leibowitz is a renowned philosopher, political activist, and the esteemed host of the Rational Egoist podcast. With a profound admiration for the philosopher Ayn Rand, Leibowitz passionately champions the principles of reason, rational self-interest, and individualism. Leibowitz's own life narrative exemplifies the transformative power of Ayn Rand's writings. Despite enduring a challenging past that led to a 25-year prison sentence, he emerged from adversity by embracing the tenets of rational self-interest and moral philosophy put forth by Ayn Rand. Beyond his philosophical and political pursuits, Leibowitz has co-authored the thought-provoking book, "Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime." This groundbreaking work delves into the societal attitudes surrounding punishment and rehabilitation, shedding light on how misguided approaches have contributed to the rise of crime and recidivism.Leibowitz's expertise extends to the airwaves, as he is a regular guest on the esteemed Todd Feinburg show at WTIC.

The Rational Egoist: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty with James Valliant Visit this link https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj purchase Michael's ebook, "View from a Cage," Join James Stevens Valliant as he interviews Michael Liebowitz, the rational egoist host and the author of the transformative book "View from a Cage: My Transformation from Convict to Crusader for Liberty." In this captivating podcast, Michael shares his extraordinary journey from a troubled upbringing in a poor neighbourhood to a champion of personal responsibility and rational egoism. Growing up surrounded by criminal influences, Michael observed that not all impoverished children turned to a life of crime. This realisation ignited his belief in free will and personal responsibility. With divorced and detached parents, Michael struggled to form healthy attachments, leading him down a destructive path that ultimately resulted in a 27-year prison sentence.During his incarceration, Michael embarked on a profound transformation through the power of books. Starting with self-development classics like "How to Win Friends and Influence People," he delved into the works of influential thinkers such as Frederic Bastiat, Ayn Rand, and Milton Friedman. The concept of non-contradiction resonated deeply with him, inspiring a commitment to rationality and personal growth.Within the confines of prison, Michael formed an unlikely friendship with a socialist named Brent. Through impassioned debates grounded in objective principles, Michael successfully converted Brent to embrace rationality, culminating in their collaborative book, "Down the Rabbit Hole."Drawing from his studies in psychology, Michael discovered that criminal thinking thrived on irrationality and contradictions. By adopting rationality and ruthlessly honest self-reflection, he transformed his own mindset and embarked on a path of change.During the interview, James and Michael delve into the concept of rights and the ethical theories that underpin them. They explore how the recognition of individual rights, including life, liberty, and property, serves as a foundation for a just society. They also delve into the dangers of an apathetic government and the importance of a vigilant populace in protecting their rights.Don't miss this thought-provoking episode of "The Rational Egoist," where Michael Liebowitz shares his inspiring journey of personal growth, rationality, and the pursuit of liberty. Visit this link https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj purchase Michael's ebook, "View from a Cage," and embark on your own transformative exploration. Michael Leibowitz is a renowned philosopher, political activist, and the esteemed host of the Rational Egoist podcast. With a profound admiration for the philosopher Ayn Rand, Leibowitz passionately champions the principles of reason, rational self-interest, and individualism.As a dedicated advocate, Leibowitz's influence extends beyond his podcasting endeavours. Leibowitz's own life narrative exemplifies the transformative power of Ayn Rand's writings. Despite enduring a challenging past that led to a 25-year prison sentence, he emerged from adversity by embracing the tenets of rational self-interest and moral philosophy put forth by Ayn Rand. His personal journey has propelled him to become an influential figure in the libertarian and Objectivist communities, empowering others to embrace reason, individualism, and self-interest in their own lives.Beyond his philosophical and political pursuits, Leibowitz has co-authored the thought-provoking book, "Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime." This groundbreaking work delves into the societal attitudes surrounding punishment and rehabilitation, shedding light on how misguided approaches have contributed to the rise of crime and recidivism.Leibowitz's expertise extends to the airwaves, as he is a regular guest on the esteemed Todd Feinburg show at WTIC.

The Rational Egoist: Capitalism is a radical new idea with Yaron Brook Welcome to "The Rational Egoist" podcast with your host, Michael Liebowitz. In this captivating episode, Michael is joined by Yaron Brook, Chairman of the Board at the Ayn Rand Institute, to delve into the profound ideas of Ayn Rand, the significance of individual rights, and the virtues of capitalism. Yaron Brook, a renowned author and former Executive Director of the Ayn Rand Institute, brings his expertise and passion to the forefront as he discusses the essence of capitalism—a system where individuals are free to pursue their own lives based on rational judgment and self-interest. Together, Michael and Yaron explore the critical importance of protecting individual rights and advocating for a complete separation of state and economy.Drawing from his extensive knowledge, Yaron reveals how capitalism is often misunderstood and misrepresented. He passionately argues that those who defend capitalism are the true radical and progressive thinkers, while those who oppose it often display conservative or socialist inclinations. By debunking common misconceptions, Yaron sheds light on the transformative power of capitalism and its incredible contributions to human progress. Throughout the episode, Yaron emphasises the moral and philosophical foundations of individual rights, explaining how they protect the freedom to use one's rational mind and shape their own life. He challenges the notion of having a right to other people's property, highlighting how such an idea contradicts the very essence of rights and legitimises coercion. Join Michael Liebowitz and Yaron Brook on this intellectual journey as they explore the principles of rational egoism, individual rights, and the benefits of capitalism. Prepare to have your preconceptions challenged and your understanding deepened in this thought-provoking discussion. Purchase Michael's latest book "View from a Cage" here: https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj Michael Leibowitz is a renowned philosopher, political activist, and the esteemed host of the Rational Egoist podcast. With a profound admiration for the philosopher Ayn Rand, Leibowitz passionately champions the principles of reason, rational self-interest, and individualism. As a dedicated advocate, Leibowitz's influence extends beyond his podcasting endeavours. Engaging in lively political debates, he fearlessly advocates for the protection of individual rights and freedoms through compelling YouTube videos and insightful interviews.Leibowitz's own life narrative exemplifies the transformative power of Ayn Rand's writings. His personal journey has propelled him to become an influential figure in the libertarian and Objectivist communities, empowering others to embrace reason, individualism, and self-interest in their own lives.Beyond his philosophical and political pursuits, Leibowitz has co-authored the thought-provoking book, "Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime." This groundbreaking work delves into the societal attitudes surrounding punishment and rehabilitation, shedding light on how misguided approaches have contributed to the rise of crime and recidivism. Leibowitz's expertise extends to the airwaves, as he is a regular guest on the esteemed Todd Feinburg show at WTIC. His expert commentary provides invaluable insights on a wide range of political and social issues, captivating audiences with his profound intellect and deep understanding of the human condition.

The Rational Egoist with Michael Liebowitz. The Supreme Court and the Administrative State with Professor Richard A. Epstein In this episode of "The Rational Egoist," host Michael Liebowitz engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Professor Richard A. Epstein, a distinguished legal expert. Together, they delve into the complexities surrounding the Supreme Court and the administrative state in the United States. The conversation begins by exploring the concept of property rights and the extent to which individuals can exercise their autonomy within private domains. They examine whether the freedom to act as one pleases within private spaces should have limitations. The focus then shifts to the highly debated Harvard affirmative action case. Epstein and Liebowitz analyse the allegations against Harvard University for allegedly discriminating against Asian students in their admissions process. They explore the implications of affirmative action and the idea of granting special favours to certain groups based on perceived discrimination. As the discussion unfolds, Epstein highlights that there is no explicit provision in the U.S. Constitution authorising the granting of special favours or privileges to particular groups. This lack of constitutional clarity, coupled with emotional and personal opinions, has muddled the legal landscape. Drawing a parallel, the conversation delves into the case of a baker who faced legal consequences for refusing to bake a cake for a gay couple. Epstein and Liebowitz examine how the courts sometimes intertwine personal beliefs and public sentiment with constitutional interpretation, leading to complex and potentially contradictory outcomes. In light of these examples, the episode concludes with a call to reassess and potentially reduce the role of the administrative state. Epstein argues that the current system has resulted in confusion and a departure from the principles outlined in the U.S. Constitution."The Rational Egoist" offers a stimulating exploration of legal and philosophical issues, shedding light on the challenges surrounding property rights, affirmative action, and the evolving role of the administrative state in American society. Michael Leibowitz is a renowned philosopher, political activist, and the esteemed host of the Rational Egoist podcast. With a profound admiration for the philosopher Ayn Rand, Leibowitz passionately champions the principles of reason, rational self-interest, and individualism.As a dedicated advocate, Leibowitz's influence extends beyond his podcasting endeavours. Engaging in lively political debates, he fearlessly advocates for the protection of individual rights and freedoms through compelling YouTube videos and insightful interviews.Leibowitz's own life narrative exemplifies the transformative power of Ayn Rand's writings. Despite enduring a challenging past that led to a 25-year prison sentence, he emerged from adversity by embracing the tenets of rational self-interest and moral philosophy put forth by Ayn Rand. His personal journey has propelled him to become an influential figure in the libertarian and Objectivist communities, empowering others to embrace reason, individualism, and self-interest in their own lives.Beyond his philosophical and political pursuits, Leibowitz has co-authored the thought-provoking book, "Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime." This groundbreaking work delves into the societal attitudes surrounding punishment and rehabilitation, shedding light on how misguided approaches have contributed to the rise of crime and recidivism.Leibowitz's expertise extends to the airwaves, as he is a regular guest on the esteemed Todd Feinburg show at WTIC. His expert commentary provides invaluable insights on a wide range of political and social issues, captivating audiences with his profound intellect and deep understanding of the human condition.

The Rational Egoist: A Debate on Immigration Policy with Michael Leibowitz and Professor Richard Aronin In this episode of "The Rational Egoist," host Michael Leibowitz engages in a spirited debate with Professor Richard Aronin, Director of Procurement at NYCCT and Emeritus Professor at New York University, on the topic of immigration policy. Please note that the views expressed by Professor Richard Aronin are his personal opinions and not representative of any organization he has been associated with. The discussion delves into the ideas of renowned philosopher Ayn Rand regarding immigration. A central point of contention emerges: Does anyone have the right to pursue their self-interest through legal means or force? Professor Richard argues that immigration should be regulated through proper vetting processes, advocating for the need to establish laws to control border access without completely closing them off. He believes that Rand's views primarily pertain to fully closed borders and not reasonable restrictions. However, Michael challenges this perspective by highlighting Rand's stance against immigration restrictions rather than their complete elimination. Michael questions the constitutional authority of the federal government to restrict immigration, except during times of war with specific countries. As the conversation unfolds, Professor Richard employs the analogy of not allowing just anyone to enter your house and extends it to the country at large. Michael counters this argument by emphasising that private property rights differ from government ownership. The duo explores the concept of who owns the USA, ultimately concluding that while the government has ownership, it is bound by the Constitution and lacks inherent rights to impose restrictions on borders or immigration. The discussion touches upon concerns about individuals entering the country to cause harm, but it is noted that most immigrants contribute positively to society and add value to the nation. The infamous events of 9/11 are mentioned, with the realisation that the attackers entered on visas rather than as immigrants, indicating that vetted immigration would not have prevented such an incident. Furthermore, the conversation highlights that most crimes are committed by natural-born US citizens rather than immigrants. The argument is made that open borders and unrestricted immigration align with the principles of individual rights, as newcomers are bound by the country's laws and private property rights of others. Professor Richard's concerns about law enforcement and citizen protection are addressed, clarifying that individual rights do not advocate for the elimination of law enforcement but rather uphold the government's duty to protect its citizens. Join Michael Leibowitz and Professor Richard Aronin as they explore the nuanced perspectives on immigration policy, dissecting the intersection of individual rights, national security, and the role of government in this thought-provoking episode of "The Rational Egoist." Michael Leibowitz is a renowned philosopher, political activist, and the esteemed host of the Rational Egoist podcast. With a profound admiration for the philosopher Ayn Rand, Leibowitz passionately champions the principles of reason, rational self-interest, and individualism. As a dedicated advocate, Leibowitz's influence extends beyond his podcasting endeavours. Engaging in lively political debates, he fearlessly advocates for the protection of individual rights and freedoms through compelling YouTube videos and insightful interviews. Leibowitz's own life narrative exemplifies the transformative power of Ayn Rand's writings. Despite enduring a challenging past that led to a 25-year prison sentence, he emerged from adversity by embracing the tenets of rational self-interest and moral philosophy put forth by Ayn Rand.