The Rational Egoist

The Rational Egoist: Exploring Relationships, Sex, and Romantic Love with Jason Stotts Join host Michael Leibowitz in engaging conversations with registered psychotherapist and philosopher Jason Stotts, as they delve into the intricate dynamics of relationships, sex, and romantic love. In this thought-provoking podcast, Michael and Jason discuss how our innate need for social interaction, despite valuing individuality, shapes our relationships and contributes to our overall well-being.Drawing from their expertise and research, Michael and Jason explore various topics, including the attachment system and its link to survival in romantic relationships. They shed light on the role of the sexual system in human connections and emphasise how evolution builds upon existing systems rather than inventing new ones. The podcast delves into fascinating studies, such as the impact of human contact deprivation on children's well-being, highlighting the significance of attachment styles in shaping our views of the world and ourselves. Michael and Jason emphasise the crucial role of social interaction in maintaining psychological health and present compelling evidence, such as studies with rats and the success of support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous.Listeners gain insights into the process of choosing romantic partners and how subconscious factors, like shared sense of life, influence attraction more than consciously shared values. They also explore the concept of learned optimism and its importance for building and sustaining healthy relationships.The Rational Egoist challenges conventional notions of soulmates and emphasises the necessity of actively working on relationships. Michael and Jason stress the significance of taking responsibility and avoiding learned helplessness to foster growth and fulfilment in partnerships. In thought-provoking episodes, Michael Leibowitz and Jason Stotts dismantle societal constructs of femininity and masculinity, highlighting their fluidity and the freedom individuals have to choose their preferred expressions. If you're intrigued by the complexities of relationships, seeking insights into romantic love, and eager to explore the interplay between individuality and social connection, tune in to The Rational Egoist for captivating discussions that will challenge and enlighten you. 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: Unraveling the Federal Indictment of Donald Trump with Prof. Ilya Somin. Join host Michael Leibowitz in an insightful conversation with Professor Ilya Somin as they delve into the complex details surrounding the federal indictment of former President Donald Trump. In this thought-provoking episode, they explore the events leading up to the indictment, specifically focusing on Trump's alleged possession of classified documents that were discovered at his Mar-a-Lago resort by the FBI. Somin, a distinguished law professor and expert in constitutional studies, sheds light on the legal implications of Trump's actions and the potential violation of laws pertaining to classified information. The discussion centres on the distinction between a president's discretionary power over documents and the standard procedure of declassification upon leaving office, highlighting the possible legal ramifications of Trump's refusal to return the documents. By examining the hypothetical scenario of Trump returning the documents, Leibowitz and Somin assess the likelihood of an indictment and the necessity of a special investigation. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of this high-profile case and explore the intricate legal aspects that surround it on The Rational Egoist with host Michael Leibowitz. 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: Free Speech, FBI, and the Federal Indictment Join host Michael Liebowitz in thought-provoking discussions on "The Rational Egoist" podcast, where he engages with renowned criminal defense and civil liberties litigator, Harvey Silverglate. In this episode, Michael and Harvey delve into the fascinating realms of free speech, the FBI, and the federal indictment of Donald Trump. Harvey, co-founder of The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, shares his insights on the limitations of free speech, the challenges posed by universities, and the need for reform within the FBI. Gain valuable perspectives on these crucial topics and explore how they impact our society and individual freedoms. Don't miss this engaging and eye-opening episode of "The Rational Egoist." 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 Ayn Rand and Ludwig von Mises with Matthew McManus Join host Michael Liebowitz in thought-provoking conversations on The Rational Egoist podcast, as he delves into the philosophies and ideas of two influential thinkers: Ayn Rand and Ludwig von Mises. In this episode, Michael is joined by Matthew McManus, a Political Science lecturer at the University of Michigan and author of "The Rise of Postmodern Conservatism," to examine the misunderstood aspects of Ayn Rand's philosophy. The discussion revolves around dispelling misconceptions about Ayn Rand's political leanings. Michael and Matthew explore how Rand's advocacy for individual freedom does not align with certain aspects of right-wing politics, such as supporting abortion bans or restricting migration. The conversation also addresses misconceptions regarding Rand's views on crony capitalism and wealth redistribution. Michael and Matthew explain how Rand's philosophy opposes forced redistribution of wealth and emphasises the value of an individual's life as an end in itself. They address the smear campaigns against Rand's ideas and stress the importance of understanding the philosophy of individualism and the concept of rational thinking as integral to her philosophy.Matthew further clarifies that Rand's philosophy does not assign moral significance to intellectual ability but rather to one's commitment to rationality. The discussion highlights the distinction between external rewards and individual responsibility, challenging the notion that Rand's philosophy promotes the superiority of those with greater abilities. They examine examples from Rand's works, such as "Atlas Shrugged" and "The Fountainhead," to illustrate the nuances of her portrayals and the moral implications therein.The conversation also touches on Ludwig von Mises and his scientific contributions. Michael and Matthew discuss von Mises' accurate predictions regarding the collapse of the Soviet Union and the Great Depression, emphasising the scientific merits of his methodologies.Throughout the episode, Michael refutes the accusations of Rand and von Mises being reactionary, dogmatic, or inflexible, asserting that their work is grounded in solid principles and that critiques often stem from smear campaigns rather than genuine analysis. Tune in to gain deeper insights into the philosophies of Ayn Rand and Ludwig von Mises and challenge preconceived notions about their ideas. 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 Utilitarian Ethics with Michael Leibowitz and Matthew Adelstein Join host Michael Leibowitz in "The Rational Egoist" podcast as he delves into the world of utilitarian ethics alongside Matthew Adelstein, a 19-year-old blogger known as Bentham's Bulldog. In this thought-provoking discussion, Michael and Matthew explore the core tenets of utilitarianism, emphasizing how the consequences of our actions hold greater significance than our intentions. They examine how actions are evaluated based on the overall well-being and happiness of individuals, extending even to the treatment of animals. Discover the intricacies of utilitarian ethics and gain valuable insights into how our behaviour impacts the world around us. 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 Psychology of Conspiracy Theories: Unmasking Beliefs and Implications with Joseph Ucinski In this enlightening episode, Michael and Professor Ucinski dive deep into the intriguing world of conspiracy theories. They begin by defining what constitutes a conspiracy theory, highlighting the sensationalism and false assumptions often associated with them. They emphasise that while going against conventional beliefs doesn't necessarily make a theory wrong, conspiracy theories often rely on the fabrication of narratives without sufficient evidence. The focus then shifts to a prominent conspiracy theory—the assassination of JFK. Michael and Professor Ucinski analyse the gaps in evidence that conspiracy theories aim to fill, exploring the psychological need for a complete story. They discuss how conspiracy theories can emerge when individuals perceive a lack of explanation or when their own worldview aligns with accusations against powerful entities. The episode further delves into the contradictory nature of conspiracy theories, examining how believers can simultaneously distrust certain institutions while relying on them in other aspects of their lives. Michael and Professor Ucinski shed light on the role of fear, identity, and psychological predispositions in shaping individuals' adoption of conspiracy theories. Throughout the episode, Michael and Professor Ucinski emphasise that conspiracy theories are often rooted in personal feelings of powerlessness and the desire for someone or something to blame. They discuss the impact of cognitive dissonance, which leads conspiracy theorists to defend their beliefs even in the face of contrary evidence. By the end of the episode, listeners gain a deeper understanding of the psychology behind conspiracy theories, their selective adoption based on personal predispositions, and the potential implications for individuals and society. Join Michael Liebowitz and Professor Joseph E. Ucinski as they unravel the intricate web of conspiracy theories, challenging listeners to critically examine the underlying beliefs and motivations behind these captivating phenomena. 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.

In this thought-provoking episode of "The Rational Egoist," your host Michael Liebowitz engages in a compelling conversation with Tom Pentalow, a retired police officer with over two decades of experience. Tom's journey from a challenging upbringing, surrounded by financial struggles as a single mother raised five children, to becoming a police officer sets the stage for an introspective exploration of the complexities and realities of law enforcement. Tom shares deeply personal experiences, including witnessing heartbreaking moments such as suicide, which left a lasting impact on his outlook. He recounts his realisation that while he couldn't help everyone, he could make a difference by saving even just one person. The notion of a ripple effect, where one life saved leads to saving three, nine, and beyond, resonates with his humility and dedication to building a better society.The conversation delves into the existence of "bad cops," with Michael recounting his own encounter with a Korean police officer who unjustly accused him as a child due to his father's criminal background. Together, they explore the psychological underpinnings behind abuses of power and stress the importance of understanding the good and the bad aspects of policing.Rejecting the notion that abusive behaviour is solely "human nature," the hosts emphasise that individuals always have a choice in how they wield authority. They emphasise the need for police officers to possess heightened emotional intelligence, as their responsibilities extend far beyond merely responding to emotional stimuli.Navigating the high-adrenaline world of policing, the duo acknowledges the lasting impact it can have on an officer's psyche long after retirement. They also address the sensitive issue of racism, acknowledging the challenges officers face, being unfairly accused of racism even when their intentions are not biased.Unions within the law enforcement context are also discussed, with Tom expressing his nuanced perspective. He highlights the need for accountability, challenging the notion that unions should protect underperforming officers at the expense of public safety. The conversation encourages a deeper examination of unions' role in maintaining a balance between protection and the responsibility to ensure competent individuals serve in law enforcement.Join Michael Liebowitz and Tom Pentalow as they engage in a candid conversation on policing, personal responsibility, and the intricate dynamics that shape law enforcement's impact on society. 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. After spending 25 years in prison, Liebowitz's 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 Objectivism, Austrian Economics, and the Path to a Freer Society with Keith Weiner Join Michael Liebowitz and Dr. Keith Weiner in "The Rational Egoist" podcast as they delve into the realms of Austrian economics, and the pursuit of individual liberty. They dissect prevalent economic theories, challenge conventional wisdom, and explore the principles that underpin a free and prosperous society. In this episode, Dr. Keith Weiner, President of the Gold Standard Institute and CEO of Monetary Metals, shares his insights as an economist and an advocate of Objectivism. He sheds light on the contradictions and fallacies prevalent in economic discourse, emphasising the importance of logical consistency and rationality in understanding wealth creation and human behaviour. Drawing from Ayn Rand's groundbreaking ideas, the podcast explores the notion of a moral standard in economic affairs, where individual feelings and subjective beliefs are replaced by objective principles. Through thought-provoking discussions, Michael and Dr. Weiner dissect various economic concepts, highlighting the flaws of using Imperial measurements in economics and the importance of studying individual habits and choices. "The Rational Egoist" also dives into the implications of a welfare state and government intrusion, revealing the detrimental effects of these interventions on economic balance, supply and demand, and individual prosperity. Listeners gain insights into the profound impact that free markets have on society, debunking misconceptions that capitalism is responsible for societal ills and emphasising the importance of individual freedom in fostering economic growth and human flourishing. Dr. Keith Weiner proposes a solution-oriented approach, advocating for the creation of businesses that challenge existing regulations and inefficiencies. By examining success stories like Uber, he illustrates the transformative power of disruptive entrepreneurship and its potential to reshape industries and liberate markets from heavy-handed regulations. "The Rational Egoist" provides an intellectual platform for individuals seeking a deeper understanding of Objectivism, Austrian economics, and the path to a freer and more prosperous society. Join Michael Liebowitz and Dr. Keith Weiner as they unravel the intricacies of economic principles, question prevailing dogmas, and champion the individual's rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Together, they pave the way for a rational and morally guided approach to economic progress and human flourishing. 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 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 with Michael Liebowitz: Exploring Conspiracy Theories with Rod Dacombe Join host Michael Liebowitz as he delves into the world of conspiracy theories with special guest Rod Dacombe, a renowned lecturer in Politics at King's College, London. In this thought-provoking episode, Michael and Rod dissect the intriguing nature of conspiracy theories and their impact on society.T ogether, they explore the underlying psychology behind conspiracy theorists and discuss how conspiracy theories serve as a unique method of communication for some individuals. From highly sensationalised narratives to the confusion and labeling of rational thinking, they shed light on the reasons behind the appeal and spread of conspiracy theories.The conversation also delves into the correlation between catastrophic events and the emergence of conspiracy theories, as well as the role of social media in amplifying their reach. They touch upon the current obsession with pervasive pedophile conspiracies, dissecting the extreme steps taken by some to validate these claims.Prepare to challenge your preconceptions and gain valuable insights into the fascinating world of conspiracy theories in this episode of "The Rational Egoist. 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 with Michael Liebowitz: Challenging the Notion of Addiction as a Disease with Dr. Jeffrey Schaler In this thought-provoking episode of "The Rational Egoist," your host Michael Liebowitz engages in a stimulating conversation with renowned psychologist and author Dr. Jeffrey Schaler. Together, they challenge the prevailing idea that addiction is a disease and delve into the social and environmental factors that influence addictive behaviour. Dr. Schaler, a retired professor of Justice, Law, and Society at American University, brings his extensive expertise and groundbreaking research to the forefront. Having previously written a dissertation that challenged the concept of addiction as a disease, he argues against the widely held belief and explores the notion that those who subscribe to the disease model often belong to groups like Alcoholics Anonymous, which he suggests have religious undertones.During the episode, Dr. Schaler introduces his book titled "Addiction is a Choice" and shares his perspective on the impact of the environment on addiction, emphasising that it plays a crucial role while genetics take a backseat. The hosts question why society tends to view addiction differently from other existential issues, such as life problems, that are commonly perceived as solvable through personal choice, rather than being labeled as diseases or mental health conditions.Drawing from empirical evidence, including a study on heroin addiction among soldiers in the Vietnam War, Dr. Schaler highlights the significant role of environment in determining addictive behaviour. The hosts discuss the statistic that 87% of confirmed heroin users who were soldiers in Vietnam gave up their addiction upon returning home, where the environment no longer fostered the need for drug use as an escape. They also touch upon the resourcefulness and strength of will often observed in drug addicts when it comes to sourcing drugs.Dr. Schaler argues that addictive behaviour falls outside the realm of involuntary physical conditions like seizures or low insulin levels, asserting that it is an expression of a person's values and therefore a moral issue. He posits that individuals cease drug use when it becomes personally significant enough for them to make the volitional choice to stop, firmly placing the responsibility on the individual. Additionally, the hosts explore the idea that learned behaviours related to drug use are primarily influenced by the environment rather than genetics, and that the presence of heritability does not negate the existence of free will.Join Michael Liebowitz and Dr. Jeffrey Schaler in this captivating episode as they challenge conventional beliefs, dissect addiction from a rational egoist perspective, and explore the intricate relationship between personal choice, environment, and addictive behaviour. (Note: The content of this episode does not endorse or undermine any specific treatment approaches or organisations.) 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. 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.