The Rational Egoist

Intergenerational Poverty: Government Policies and Economic Barriers with Sean Malone In this episode of "The Rational Egoist" host Michael Liebowitz sits with Sean W. Malone, Executive Producer at Return on Ideas, and engages in a thought-provoking conversation about intergenerational poverty. They delve into the root causes of this issue, highlighting the detrimental impact of government policies on individuals and communities.The discussion explores how certain policies discourage employment by creating disincentives for individuals to work. Examples include welfare systems that penalise those who seek additional income through jobs, ultimately perpetuating dependency across generations. Young minorities and individuals in their prime productive years are disproportionately affected by such policies, hindering their ability to escape the cycle of poverty. Zoning regulations that restrict home-based businesses also contribute to economic barriers. The conversation sheds light on the challenges faced by aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly those with unique skills, such as hair braiding, who are hindered by costly licensing requirements that may not align with their specific abilities. The podcast episode further examines the negative implications of minimum wage laws. While intended to protect workers, these laws can inadvertently exclude individuals who are willing to negotiate lower wages or work for free to acquire valuable skills and experience. Such barriers leave many individuals behind, relegating them to welfare dependency. Addressing the notion of dynastic wealth, the conversation challenges the assumption that capitalism alone perpetuates wealth concentration. By exploring the dissipation of wealth over generations, the discussion highlights the importance of maintaining business success and the role of personal sacrifices in building and preserving wealth. It also emphasises the significance of admiring individuals who have achieved remarkable success through hard work. The episode concludes by proposing three key changes to combat generational poverty: abolishing minimum wage laws to allow for flexible negotiations and skills development, eliminating restrictive licensing requirements to enable individuals to utilise their talents and pursue economic opportunities, and reevaluating drug laws to prevent unnecessary incarcerations that hinder young people's prospects. Additionally, the conversation advocates for separating education and government, arguing for greater school choice and the ability to attend schools based on individual preferences rather than predetermined geographical limitations. Tune in to this thought-provoking episode of "The Rational Egoist" to gain insights into the complex dynamics of intergenerational poverty, the impact of government policies, and potential solutions to break the cycle of dependency and promote individual empowerment. 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.

Atlas Shrugging in Norway: The Consequences of Wealth Tax with Jon Miltimore. In this episode Michael Leibowitz, he is joined by Jon Miltimore, the managing editor for FEE.org and a prominent writer featured in Time Magazine and The Wall Street Journal. Together, they delve into the intriguing topic of whether Atlas is shrugging in Norway, exploring the unintended consequences of the country's implementation of a wealth tax. The discussion centers around Norway's decision to introduce a wealth tax, which ultimately led to billionaires leaving the country and resulted in decreased tax revenue for the government. The wealth tax targeted not just income but also assets and savings, affecting individuals even when they were not actively generating income. Miltimore and Leibowitz examine the underlying motivations behind this tax, highlighting the insatiable nature of governments in socialist countries, where no amount of money ever seems to be enough. Drawing on historical examples, such as people leaving communist countries and parts of Europe, the conversation connects these instances to Ayn Rand's famous novel, "Atlas Shrugged." The hosts explore how individuals throughout history have chosen to shrug, or withdraw their productive efforts, in response to oppressive government policies. They also touch upon the founding principles of the United States, emphasising the shift towards a system that plunders producers to support non-producers.Expanding the scope of the conversation, Miltimore and Leibowitz discuss the growing trend of government interference in areas beyond its intended role. They highlight the outsourcing of censorship to private companies and the dangers of overreach in limiting free speech. The hosts argue that the question of how to make lives better through government intervention is fundamentally flawed and has historically resulted in disaster. Instead, they assert that the proper role of government is to defend individual rights, not to engage in wealth redistribution or excessive meddling. 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.Join Michael Leibowitz on his intellectual journey 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.

Is Taxation Theft? with Professor Richard Salsman Join host Michael Leibowitz as he dives deep into the contentious topic of taxation in this thought-provoking episode featuring special guest Professor Richard Salsman. Together, they engage in a rigorous discussion to examine the question: Is taxation tantamount to theft or an indispensable means of funding legitimate government functions? Professor Salsman presents arguments in favour of taxation, emphasising its role in supporting essential services such as the courts, police, and defence. He posits that taxation, by its compulsory nature, ensures the necessary revenue collection for public goods and societal infrastructure. On the opposing side, Michael contends that taxation can be seen as theft due to its inherent coercion and the unequal burden it places on individuals, not only in terms of the amount paid but also the percentage of their income. He argues that receiving benefits or services from the government does not absolve taxation from being viewed as an involuntary exchange. Throughout the episode, they delve into the intricacies of the terms "looter" and "moocher" to differentiate those who initiate force from those who benefit from the actions of others. They also explore the necessity of a legitimate government in protecting individual rights, the intrinsic value of goods and services, and the ethical implications of court subpoenas. Ultimately, they find common ground in acknowledging the importance of a legitimate government to protect individual rights, while also recognising the need for a comprehensive plan to transition society towards greater freedom. Tune in to this stimulating episode of "The Rational Egoist" to gain fresh insights into the ethics and implications of taxation, and to explore the broader implications of individual rights and freedom in 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. Join Michael Leibowitz on his intellectual journey 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.

Examining Critical Race Theory and Its Implications on the Law with Prof. Charles A. Price. In this episode of "The Rational Egoist," host Michael Leibowitz engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Professor Charles A. Price, an esteemed scholar in the field of education and leadership studies. Professor Price brings his expertise to the table as they delve into the complex topic of Critical Race Theory (CRT) and its influence on the legal system.During the discussion, Professor Price highlights the inherent objective nature of the law and how CRT challenges this objectivity by examining how race factors into legal decisions. He explains how CRT has evolved into a legal theory that seeks to identify and address areas where the law is not impartial and can perpetuate racial bias. By exploring these issues, the podcast aims to shed light on how race has taken center stage in legal discourse, sometimes at the expense of individual perspectives.The conversation also touches upon the origins of Critical Race Theory, tracing its roots back to Harvard University. Professor Price shares a notable incident where students confronted a professor about the underrepresentation of black professors and were met with discriminatory remarks. This incident sparked a movement that ultimately led to the development of CRT as a framework for examining racial disparities within various institutions, including academia and the law.Join host Michael Leibowitz and Professor Charles A. Price on this intellectually stimulating episode of "The Rational Egoist" as they navigate the intricate nuances of Critical Race Theory, its impact on the law, and its potential implications for society as a whole. To learn more about Professor Price's work, visit his website at https://charlesaprice.weebly.com/. 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.Join Michael Leibowitz on his intellectual journey 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.

The Rational Egoist: Unveiling the Inner Workings of Government with Len Suzio. Join Michael Liebowitz, an insightful host with a rational perspective, as he engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Len Suzio, a former state senator from Connecticut. In this captivating episode, they delve into the intricacies of the legislative process and the challenges faced when passing bills. With over 3,500 bills to process within a limited timeframe, the reliance on inexperienced individuals to review and summarise them leads to potential errors and unnoticed amendments. Discover how the public can testify against these bills, exploring the importance and sometimes daunting nature of public participation. Despite the public's voice, the impact may often be limited, unless there is a significant public outcry.As the conversation progresses, the focus shifts to the question of why people continue to vote for larger government despite its perceived inefficiencies. Gain insights into the role of public education in understanding government operations, including the unnoticed burden of exorbitant taxes that contribute to an expanding government. Join Michael Liebowitz and Len Suzio on "The Rational Egoist" as they unravel the complexities of government and shed light on the importance of an informed citizenry. 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.Join Michael Leibowitz on his intellectual journey 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.

Unraveling the Federal Reserve, Inflation, and Monopolies: Insights with Mike Holly In this episode of "The Rational Egoist," your host Michael Leibowitz engages in a thought-provoking conversation with expert guest Mike Holly. Mike, armed with Masters degrees in Business Administration and Chemical Engineering, shares his profound knowledge on the Federal Reserve, inflation, the boom/bust cycle, and monopolies. Delving into the history and purpose of the Federal Reserve, Mike challenges the notion that it effectively controls the supply of money to mitigate economic booms and busts. Exploring the consequences of low interest rates and speculative buying, he unveils the creation of economic bubbles and the subsequent hardships faced by individuals and businesses when these bubbles burst. Moreover, Mike reveals his perspective on monopolies, asserting that they are primarily a result of government regulations. He argues that dismantling monopolies requires a comprehensive approach of eliminating the government policies that facilitated their emergence, rather than relying on inadequate antitrust measures. Mike sheds light on the influence of patterns, zoning, licensing, and subsidies in sectors such as technology, banking, housing, healthcare, and education, all of which contribute to monopolistic practices. Throughout the conversation, Mike exposes the deceptive nature of these regulations, suggesting that they are often disguised as consumer protection measures. In reality, he contends, they serve the interests of businesses and stifle competition. He explores the concept of regulatory capture, where companies gain influence over government agencies meant to oversee them, ultimately using the power of the state to erect barriers against new competitors.Addressing the topic of inflation, Mike illuminates the artificial nature of its creation. He discusses the interplay between monetary expansion, supply restrictions, and the consequences of quantitative easing and government spending on the economy. Mike shares his insights on the potential indicators of an upcoming recession, including stock market crashes and their subsequent impact. 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.

The Rational Egoist: Understanding Autism with Dr. Amy Marschall Join host Michael Leibowitz in an enlightening conversation with Dr. Amy Marschall, a clinical psychologist specialising in trauma-focused cognitive behavioural therapy and telemental health, as they delve into the fascinating world of autism. In this episode of "The Rational Egoist," they explore the concept of neurodivergence and shed light on how autism manifests within the spectrum. Dr. Marschall, who primarily works with children and adolescents, offers valuable insights into the unique experiences of autistic individuals. Discover the importance of recognising that each autistic person is distinct, with their own set of strengths and challenges. The podcast touches on the misconception that autistic people lack empathy and competence, debunking these stereotypes with compelling evidence.Through engaging discussions, Dr. Marschall highlights the various ways in which autistic individuals communicate, including nonverbal cues and behaviour. Listeners gain a deeper understanding of how meltdowns and sensory overstimulation can affect autistic children, emphasising the need for a more inclusive and understanding society.Moreover, the podcast delves into the significance of embracing one's true self rather than attempting to conform to societal expectations. The harmful effects of masking and the importance of accepting and celebrating neurodiversity are explored, along with recommendations for further reading. For parents of autistic children, Dr. Marschall highly recommends the book "I Will Die On This Hill" by Jules Edwards and Meghan Ashburn. This powerful resource provides invaluable insights and support for families navigating the unique challenges and joys of raising autistic kids.Tune in to "The Rational Egoist" as Michael Leibowitz and Dr. Amy Marschall shed light on autism, challenge misconceptions, and foster a more inclusive and empathetic understanding of neurodiversity. 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. Join Michael Leibowitz on his intellectual journey 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.

The Rational Egoist: Unveiling Immigration Realities with Michael Niren Join host Michael Leibowitz in "The Rational Egoist" as he dives into the complexities of America's immigration system and shares compelling stories of immigrants and the attorneys who advocate for them. With 25 years of experience as an immigration attorney, Michael Niren provides insightful perspectives on the challenges faced by individuals navigating through regulations and bureaucracy in their pursuit of a better life.In this thought-provoking podcast, you'll discover the truth behind the misconception that immigrants solely seek welfare opportunities. Explore the significance of human capital in shaping nations, as Michael and his guest highlight the dedication, hard work, and skills brought by many migrants into the United States."The Rational Egoist" challenges negative narratives, shedding light on the enriching multiculturalism immigrants contribute to countries like the USA, Canada, and Australia. While facing instances of racism and prejudice, most immigrants are hyper-motivated and successful individuals who excel in various professions, including medicine, law, business, and leadership positions. With a focus on individual rights, the podcast delves into the relentless battle lawyers face, manoeuvring through ever-evolving regulations and bureaucratic complexities to help deserving individuals find refuge from oppressive situations. Discover the contrasting immigration systems of Canada and Australia, which offer more relaxed pathways for skilled migrants based on a points system, even without a job offer. Amidst discussions on birthright citizenship and the Constitution, "The Rational Egoist" exposes the challenges posed by xenophobia and bureaucratic red tape, offering an insightful perspective on the barriers immigrants encounter while striving to enter a new country. Tune in to "The Rational Egoist" to gain a deeper understanding of the immigration landscape and join the conversation surrounding one of the world's most pressing issues. Michael Liebowitz is a philosopher, political activist, and host of the Rational Egoist podcast. He is a passionate advocate of reason and his views have been heavily influenced by the philosopher Ayn Rand. Liebowitz has dedicated his life to promoting its principles of rational self-interest, individualism, and reason. In addition to his work as a podcast host, Liebowitz is also a prominent spokesperson for the Libertarian Party for Connecticut - USA and has been involved in a number of political debates advocating for individual rights and freedoms through his YouTube videos and interviews. Liebowitz's life story is a testament to the transformative power of the writings of Ayn Rand. After spending 25 years in prison, he was able to turn his life around by embracing the principles of rational self-interest and morality espoused by Ayn Rand. He has since become an influential voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities, using his own experience to inspire others to live their lives in accordance with reason, individualism, and self-interest. Liebowitz is also the co-author of "Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime," a book that explores the ways in which misguided societal attitudes towards punishment and rehabilitation have led to a rise in crime and recidivism. In addition to his work in politics and philosophy, Liebowitz is a regular guest on the Todd Feinburg show at WTIC, where he provides expert commentary on a range of political and social issues.

The Rational Egoist: Exploring Criminal Justice Reform with Michael Lawlor Join host Michael Leibowitz in engaging discussions with Professor Michael Lawlor, a prominent figure in criminal justice reform, as they delve into the complexities of the prison system. Drawing from his extensive experience in the Connecticut legislature and his role as Governor Dannel P. Malloy's Undersecretary for Criminal Justice Policy and Planning, Professor Lawlor provides valuable insights into the stated purposes of incarceration, including retribution, deterrence, separation from society, and reform. With Michael Leibowitz having spent 25 years behind bars himself, this podcast offers a unique perspective on the topic. The conversation highlights the limited effectiveness of imprisonment as a form of punishment and explores the various freedoms and shortcomings within the prison system. The discussion also delves into the risk reduction credit system, critiquing its significance in promoting true reform and addressing the underlying issues of recidivism. The Rational Egoist aims to challenge the prevailing mindset among inmates that everyone is inherently dishonest and criminal, shifting the focus towards instilling a moral code for successful reintegration into society. Join the conversation as Leibowitz and Lawlor examine the failures of prisons in achieving this crucial objective and discuss the pressing need for transformative change within the criminal justice system. Michael Liebowitz is a philosopher, political activist, and host of the Rational Egoist podcast. He is a passionate advocate of reason and his views have been heavily influenced by the philosopher Ayn Rand. Liebowitz has dedicated his life to promoting its principles of rational self-interest, individualism, and reason. In addition to his work as a podcast host, Liebowitz is also a prominent spokesperson for the Libertarian Party for Connecticut - USA and has been involved in a number of political debates advocating for individual rights and freedoms through his YouTube videos and interviews. Liebowitz's life story is a testament to the transformative power of the writings of Ayn Rand. After spending 25 years in prison, he was able to turn his life around by embracing the principles of rational self-interest and morality espoused by Ayn Rand. He has since become an influential voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities, using his own experience to inspire others to live their lives in accordance with reason, individualism, and self-interest. Liebowitz is also the co-author of "Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime," a book that explores the ways in which misguided societal attitudes towards punishment and rehabilitation have led to a rise in crime and recidivism. In addition to his work in politics and philosophy, Liebowitz is a regular guest on the Todd Feinburg show at WTIC, where he provides expert commentary on a range of political and social issues.

The Rational Egoist: Understanding the Motivation and Psychology of Conspiracy Theorists with Dr. Ricky Green Join host Michael Leibowitz in engaging conversations with experts as they delve into the intriguing world of conspiracy theories. In this thought-provoking podcast, Michael interviews Dr. Ricky Green, a Post-doctoral Research Associate specialising in the relationships between attachment anxiety, catastrophising, and the belief in conspiracy theories. Together, they explore the complex motivations and thought processes behind individuals who subscribe to these theories. Discover why some people are drawn to conspiracy theories, as Michael and Dr. Green shed light on the psychological factors at play. They discuss the existential and epistemic needs that drive individuals to seek security and explanations for uncertain events through conspiracy theories. Learn how attachment anxiety and fear of abandonment contribute to the adoption of these beliefs, and explore the parallels between conspiracy theorists and religious individuals in terms of their epistemological approaches. In this podcast, you'll gain insights into the cognitive biases and social motives that influence conspiracy theorists. Understand the role of impression management and how the desire for acceptance impacts the adoption and spread of conspiracy theories. Explore the connection between political affiliations and belief in conspiracy theories, and examine the potential consequences, including the propensity for violence. Don't miss the enlightening discussion on interventions and vaccinations against conspiracy theories. Discover strategies to help individuals build resilience against misinformation and sensationalised information, reducing their susceptibility to conspiracy theories. Gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by conspiracy theorists during times of crisis, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, and explore the positive trend towards reason-based approaches in society. Join Michael Leibowitz and his expert guests as they unravel the complexities of conspiracy theories, offering listeners a deeper understanding of the motivations and psychology behind these captivating beliefs. Michael Liebowitz is a philosopher, political activist, and host of the Rational Egoist podcast. He is a passionate advocate of reason and his views have been heavily influenced by the philosopher Ayn Rand. Liebowitz has dedicated his life to promoting its principles of rational self-interest, individualism, and reason. In addition to his work as a podcast host, Liebowitz is also a prominent spokesperson for the Libertarian Party for Connecticut - USA and has been involved in a number of political debates advocating for individual rights and freedoms through his YouTube videos and interviews. Liebowitz's life story is a testament to the transformative power of the writings of Ayn Rand. After spending 25 years in prison, he was able to turn his life around by embracing the principles of rational self-interest and morality espoused by Ayn Rand. He has since become an influential voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities, using his own experience to inspire others to live their lives in accordance with reason, individualism, and self-interest. Liebowitz is also the co-author of "Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime," a book that explores the ways in which misguided societal attitudes towards punishment and rehabilitation have led to a rise in crime and recidivism. In addition to his work in politics and philosophy, Liebowitz is a regular guest on the Todd Feinburg show at WTIC, where he provides expert commentary on a range of political and social issues.