The Rational Egoist

In this intellectually stimulating episode of "The Rational Egoist," host Michael Liebowitz engages in a thought-provoking conversation with June Everett, an ordained minister of The Satanic Temple and the Campaign Director for the After School Satan Club. Despite its eyebrow-raising title, the discussion delves into a nuanced exploration of this non-theocratic organisation, grounded in reason and devoid of faith or superstition. Tune in as Michael and June dissect the club's primary mission, rooted in benevolence and empathy driven by rationality. As ardent advocates of reason, they delve into the club's approach to these values, shattering misconceptions and highlighting the essence of rational thought. The most intriguing aspect of their conversation lies in June's keen observation of hypocrisy within those who advocate religious freedom. Drawing on her experiences, she uncovers a paradox where individuals who proclaim their belief in freedom and the constitution reject religious perspectives that differ from their own. Michael and June dissect this contradiction, shedding light on the complexities surrounding religious freedom and personal convictions.Join us in this enlightening episode as we navigate the realms of rational discourse, religious freedom, and individual rights, all through the lens of objectivism. Listen now to gain a deeper understanding of these concepts and challenge your perspectives. Michael's eBook Link: https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xjPaperback Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/view-from-a-cage-michael-liebowitz/1143766239?fbclid=IwAR1AF6XdbbQEkpsiBU03w-wt5iiDj6yXbqJDwwY98kuuEnz3vA Michael Leibowitz is a renowned philosopher, political activist, and the esteemed host of the Rational Egoist podcast. Inspired by the philosophical teachings of Ayn Rand, Leibowitz passionately champions the principles of reason, rational self-interest, and individualism, seeking to empower others through his compelling work. His life's narrative exemplifies the transformative power of Ayn Rand's writings. Having faced challenging circumstances that led to a 25-year prison sentence, Leibowitz emerged from adversity by embracing the tenets of rational self-interest and moral philosophy put forth by Ayn Rand. This profound transformation propelled him to become an influential figure in the libertarian and Objectivist communities, motivating others to adopt reason, individualism, and self-interest in their own lives. Beyond his impactful podcasting endeavours, Leibowitz fearlessly engages in lively political debates, advocating for the protection of individual rights and freedoms through compelling YouTube videos and insightful interviews. His unwavering commitment to these ideals has garnered him a dedicated following of like-minded individuals.Leibowitz is a versatile author, co-authoring the thought-provoking book titled "Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime." This groundbreaking work delves into societal attitudes surrounding punishment and rehabilitation, shedding light on how misguided approaches have contributed to the rise of crime and recidivism. Additionally, he has authored the book "View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty," offering an intimate portrayal of his personal journey while exploring the philosophies that influenced his transformation. For a deeper exploration of his ideas and insights, don't miss the opportunity to read "Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime," co-authored by Michael Leibowitz. And also, delve into his book "View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty." Both books are available for purchase using the following links: "Down the Rabbit Hole": https://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064X "View from a Cage": https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj

In this intellectually stimulating episode of "The Rational Egoist," host Michael Liebowitz engages in a thought-provoking dialogue with Dr. Harry Binswanger, a distinguished Objectivist philosopher and author with a profound understanding of morality and reason. Harry Binswanger, renowned for his academic achievements including a Bachelor's degree from MIT and a Doctorate from Columbia, brings his wealth of knowledge to the forefront. Drawing from his extensive background, he provides insightful insights into the intricate interplay between profit and morality. His book "How We Know" exemplifies his dedication to intellectual exploration. Explore the complexities surrounding a recent Italian bank's astounding 40% profit, which has ignited a fiery debate on its moral implications. As Michael and Dr. Binswanger dissect the arguments, they navigate the clash of ideologies influenced by a Christian perspective in Italy, where profit is often portrayed as morally questionable. In the backdrop of these debates lies a crucial distinction: the perspective shifts when examining individual payouts earned through work within a business. The duo dissects this distinction and highlights the role of government intervention and rising interest rates that have contributed to the contentious profit surge. For those interested in delving deeper into Michael's perspectives, you can find his ebook at: https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj and the paperback version of his book at: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/view-from-a-cage-michael-liebowitz/1143766239?fbclid=IwAR2Fws9V3qf382v33wpIfuNDz29C-I9QMWVvwlmOGfDphjnVBG7g7lclPHE. Michael Leibowitz is a renowned philosopher, political activist, and the esteemed host of the Rational Egoist podcast. Inspired by the philosophical teachings of Ayn Rand, Leibowitz passionately champions the principles of reason, rational self-interest, and individualism, seeking to empower others through his compelling work. His life's narrative exemplifies the transformative power of Ayn Rand's writings. Having faced challenging circumstances that led to a 25-year prison sentence, Leibowitz emerged from adversity by embracing the tenets of rational self-interest and moral philosophy put forth by Ayn Rand. This profound transformation propelled him to become an influential figure in the libertarian and Objectivist communities, motivating others to adopt reason, individualism, and self-interest in their own lives. Beyond his impactful podcasting endeavours, Leibowitz fearlessly engages in lively political debates, advocating for the protection of individual rights and freedoms through compelling YouTube videos and insightful interviews. His unwavering commitment to these ideals has garnered him a dedicated following of like-minded individuals.Leibowitz is a versatile author, co-authoring the thought-provoking book titled "Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime." This groundbreaking work delves into societal attitudes surrounding punishment and rehabilitation, shedding light on how misguided approaches have contributed to the rise of crime and recidivism.Additionally, he has authored the book "View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty," offering an intimate portrayal of his personal journey while exploring the philosophies that influenced his transformation. For a deeper exploration of his ideas and insights, don't miss the opportunity to read "Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime," co-authored by Michael Leibowitz. And also, delve into his book "View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty." Both books are available for purchase using the following links:"Down the Rabbit Hole": https://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064X"View from a Cage": https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj

Exploring Ethical Architecture with James Valliant In this intellectually stimulating episode of "The Rational Egoist" podcast, host Michael Leibowitz engages in a captivating conversation with the distinguished author James Valliant. The episode delves into the ethical landscape of one of Ayn Rand's most iconic characters, Howard Roark, the hero of "The Fountainhead." James Valliant, renowned for his works "The Passion of Ayn Rand's Critics" and "Creating Christ," lends his insightful perspective to dissecting Roark's moral standing within the context of his complex interactions with Peter Keating. The pivotal moment in "The Fountainhead," where Keating presents Roark's architectural masterpiece for public appraisal, becomes a focal point. The hosts explore the ethical implications of Keating taking credit for Roark's designs, raising questions about the morality of this arrangement. As the narrative unfolds, the symbiotic relationship between Roark and Keating is dissected, considering whether Roark's choice to collaborate with Keating tarnishes his ethical character. Ultimately, the conversation concludes with a nuanced analysis of whether Howard Roark can be deemed a moral person, given his multifaceted interactions with Peter Keating. The hosts navigate the grey areas, acknowledging Roark's complexities and the broader implications of his actions within the context of Objectivist ethics. Join Michael Leibowitz and James Valliant in this thought-provoking episode that delves into the depths of ethical architecture and the moral dilemmas posed by "The Fountainhead." To explore more of Michael's works, you can find his ebook at: https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj and the print-on-demand version at: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/view-from-a-cage-michael-liebowitz/1143766239?fbclid=IwAR0sOHT_iInu2lJ4lUE1ul_KxOa0AR6U2K_yYNSTuLqiuQHjaB2c8FhzFCY. Michael Leibowitz is a renowned philosopher, political activist, and the esteemed host of the Rational Egoist podcast. Inspired by the philosophical teachings of Ayn Rand, Leibowitz passionately champions the principles of reason, rational self-interest, and individualism, seeking to empower others through his compelling work. His life's narrative exemplifies the transformative power of Ayn Rand's writings. Having faced challenging circumstances that led to a 25-year prison sentence, Leibowitz emerged from adversity by embracing the tenets of rational self-interest and moral philosophy put forth by Ayn Rand. This profound transformation propelled him to become an influential figure in the libertarian and Objectivist communities, motivating others to adopt reason, individualism, and self-interest in their own lives. Leibowitz is a versatile author, co-authoring the thought-provoking book titled "Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime." This groundbreaking work delves into societal attitudes surrounding punishment and rehabilitation, shedding light on how misguided approaches have contributed to the rise of crime and recidivism. Additionally, he has authored the book "View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty," offering an intimate portrayal of his personal journey while exploring the philosophies that influenced his transformation. For a deeper exploration of his ideas and insights, don't miss the opportunity to read "Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime," co-authored by Michael Leibowitz. And also, delve into his book "View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty." Both books are available for purchase using the following links: "Down the Rabbit Hole": https://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064X "View from a Cage": https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj  

Unpacking Trump's Charges: A Rational Egoist Discussion with Michael Liebowitz and Professor Ilya Somin Join host Michael Liebowitz and special guest Professor Ilya Somin in this episode of "The Rational Egoist." Together, they delve into the latest Trump indictment, dissecting charges that range from obstructing an official proceeding to attempting to pressure state officials. The conversation sheds light on the complexities of free speech, allegations of election rigging, and potential illegal actions. Gain insights into the nuanced legal landscape and explore misconceptions about the charges. For more information related to this topic please visit "Clearing Up Common Misconceptions About the Charges Against Trump" for an in-depth analysis: https://reason.com/volokh/2023/08/05/clearing-up-common-misconceptions-about-the-charges-against-trump/. Michael Leibowitz is a renowned philosopher, political activist, and the esteemed host of the Rational Egoist podcast. Inspired by the philosophical teachings of Ayn Rand, Leibowitz passionately champions the principles of reason, rational self-interest, and individualism, seeking to empower others through his compelling work. His life's narrative exemplifies the transformative power of Ayn Rand's writings. Having faced challenging circumstances that led to a 25-year prison sentence, Leibowitz emerged from adversity by embracing the tenets of rational self-interest and moral philosophy put forth by Ayn Rand. This profound transformation propelled him to become an influential figure in the libertarian and Objectivist communities, motivating others to adopt reason, individualism, and self-interest in their own lives. Beyond his impactful podcasting endeavors, Leibowitz fearlessly engages in lively political debates, advocating for the protection of individual rights and freedoms through compelling YouTube videos and insightful interviews. His unwavering commitment to these ideals has garnered him a dedicated following of like-minded individuals. Leibowitz is a versatile author, co-authoring the thought-provoking book titled "Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime." This groundbreaking work delves into societal attitudes surrounding punishment and rehabilitation, shedding light on how misguided approaches have contributed to the rise of crime and recidivism. Additionally, he has authored the book "View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty," offering an intimate portrayal of his personal journey while exploring the philosophies that influenced his transformation. As you embark on your intellectual journey, join Michael Leibowitz as he advocates for reason, individualism, and the pursuit of self-interest, inspiring others to embrace a philosophy that empowers and uplifts the human spirit. For a deeper exploration of his ideas and insights, don't miss the opportunity to read "Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime," co-authored by Michael Leibowitz. And also, delve into his book "View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty." Both books are available for purchase using the following links: "Down the Rabbit Hole": https://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064X "View from a Cage": https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj    

The Rational Egoist: The Importance of Not Sanctioning Immorality with Peter Schwartz In this episode, Michael Leibowitz is joined by Peter Schwartz, former Chairman of the Board and Senior Fellow at The Ayn Rand Institute, to explore the criteria for assessing morality based on a life-sustaining standard. They delve into the significance of exercising your mind to live a fulfilling life and the importance of dealing with moral individuals while avoiding those who promote immorality. The discussion highlights the risks of engaging in debates that condone evil and provides insights into distinguishing rational arguments from irrational ones. Tune in to discover how ethical decisions promote a better world and how objectivism encourages critical thinking for a better understanding of truth. Michael Leibowitz is a renowned philosopher, political activist, and the esteemed host of the Rational Egoist podcast. Inspired by the philosophical teachings of Ayn Rand, Leibowitz passionately champions the principles of reason, rational self-interest, and individualism, seeking to empower others through his compelling work.His life's narrative exemplifies the transformative power of Ayn Rand's writings. Having faced challenging circumstances that led to a 25-year prison sentence, Leibowitz emerged from adversity by embracing the tenets of rational self-interest and moral philosophy put forth by Ayn Rand. This profound transformation propelled him to become an influential figure in the libertarian and Objectivist communities, motivating others to adopt reason, individualism, and self-interest in their own lives. Beyond his impactful podcasting endeavors, Leibowitz fearlessly engages in lively political debates, advocating for the protection of individual rights and freedoms through compelling YouTube videos and insightful interviews. His unwavering commitment to these ideals has garnered him a dedicated following of like-minded individuals.Leibowitz is a versatile author, co-authoring the thought-provoking book titled "Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime." This groundbreaking work delves into societal attitudes surrounding punishment and rehabilitation, shedding light on how misguided approaches have contributed to the rise of crime and recidivism. Additionally, he has authored the book "View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty," offering an intimate portrayal of his personal journey while exploring the philosophies that influenced his transformation. As you embark on your intellectual journey, join Michael Leibowitz as he advocates for reason, individualism, and the pursuit of self-interest, inspiring others to embrace a philosophy that empowers and uplifts the human spirit. For a deeper exploration of his ideas and insights, don't miss the opportunity to read "Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime," co-authored by Michael Leibowitz. And also, delve into his book "View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty." Both books are available for purchase using the following links: "Down the Rabbit Hole": https://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064X" View from a Cage": https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj

The Rational Egoist - Unraveling the Origins of Covid with David Quammen In this compelling episode of "The Rational Egoist," esteemed host Michael Liebowitz engages in a thought-provoking discussion with science, nature, and travel writer David Quammen. Together, they delve into the contentious origins of the Covid virus, exploring the two main theories surrounding its source. The first theory revolves around the possibility that the virus originated from the Wuhan Institute of Virology, potentially escaping during research. On the other hand, the second theory proposes a natural origin, suggesting cross-contamination from a wild animal into the human population. While the balance of evidence points towards a natural origin, public opinion seems to favour the lab leak theory, fuelled by conspiracy theories and false evidence circulated on the internet. The lack of a definitive progenitor virus similar to Covid adds to the complexity. Quammen highlights the need for accurate scientific investigation and the importance of educating the public on how science works. He addresses the provisional and self-correcting nature of scientific findings, which can be misconstrued by those skeptical of authority. Politicians' involvement and misrepresentation of science further contribute to the confusion. The podcast emphasises the significance of conclusively determining the origins of the virus through rigorous scientific methods to rebuild trust within society. Michael Leibowitz is a renowned philosopher, political activist, and the esteemed host of the Rational Egoist podcast. Inspired by the philosophical teachings of Ayn Rand, Leibowitz passionately champions the principles of reason, rational self-interest, and individualism, seeking to empower others through his compelling work. His life's narrative exemplifies the transformative power of Ayn Rand's writings. Having faced challenging circumstances that led to a 25-year prison sentence, Leibowitz emerged from adversity by embracing the tenets of rational self-interest and moral philosophy put forth by Ayn Rand. This profound transformation propelled him to become an influential figure in the libertarian and Objectivist communities, motivating others to adopt reason, individualism, and self-interest in their own lives. Beyond his impactful podcasting endeavors, Leibowitz fearlessly engages in lively political debates, advocating for the protection of individual rights and freedoms through compelling YouTube videos and insightful interviews. His unwavering commitment to these ideals has garnered him a dedicated following of like-minded individuals. Leibowitz is a versatile author, co-authoring the thought-provoking book titled "Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime." This groundbreaking work delves into societal attitudes surrounding punishment and rehabilitation, shedding light on how misguided approaches have contributed to the rise of crime and recidivism. Additionally, he has authored the book "View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty," offering an intimate portrayal of his personal journey while exploring the philosophies that influenced his transformation. As you embark on your intellectual journey, join Michael Leibowitz as he advocates for reason, individualism, and the pursuit of self-interest, inspiring others to embrace a philosophy that empowers and uplifts the human spirit. For a deeper exploration of his ideas and insights, don't miss the opportunity to read "Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime," co-authored by Michael Leibowitz. And also, delve into his book "View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty." Both books are available for purchase using the following links: "Down the Rabbit Hole": https://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064X "View from a Cage": https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj  

The Rational Egoist: Exploring the Conflict Between Reason and Faith with Michael Rectenwald Join host Michael Leibowitz in this thought-provoking episode of "The Rational Egoist" as he welcomes Distinguished Fellow at Hillsdale College and renowned author Michael Rectenwald. In this captivating debate, they delve into the age-old question of whether there is a conflict between reason and faith. Throughout the discussion, Michael Rectenwald shares insights from his vast experience, having taught at prestigious institutions like New York University and authored several influential books, including "Thought Criminal" and "Beyond Woke." He argues that faith is not merely based on blind belief but can also be grounded in experiential evidence. The podcast explores the prevailing notion that scientific advancements negate the relevance of religion and faith. However, both hosts challenge this idea, suggesting that spiritual texts can often be metaphorical and may harmonize with scientific discoveries over time. Michael Lipkiewicz also adds his perspective to the conversation, emphasizing the importance of reason as a measure of discovery. Together, they engage in a compelling exchange that offers listeners a deeper understanding of the intricate relationship between reason and faith. Tune in to gain new insights into this timeless debate on "The Rational Egoist."Michael Leibowitz is a renowned philosopher, political activist, and the esteemed host of the Rational Egoist podcast. Inspired by the philosophical teachings of Ayn Rand, Leibowitz passionately champions the principles of reason, rational self-interest, and individualism, seeking to empower others through his compelling work.His life's narrative exemplifies the transformative power of Ayn Rand's writings. Having faced challenging circumstances that led to a 25-year prison sentence, Leibowitz emerged from adversity by embracing the tenets of rational self-interest and moral philosophy put forth by Ayn Rand. This profound transformation propelled him to become an influential figure in the libertarian and Objectivist communities, motivating others to adopt reason, individualism, and self-interest in their own lives.Beyond his impactful podcasting endeavors, Leibowitz fearlessly engages in lively political debates, advocating for the protection of individual rights and freedoms through compelling YouTube videos and insightful interviews. His unwavering commitment to these ideals has garnered him a dedicated following of like-minded individuals.Leibowitz is a versatile author, co-authoring the thought-provoking book titled "Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime." This groundbreaking work delves into societal attitudes surrounding punishment and rehabilitation, shedding light on how misguided approaches have contributed to the rise of crime and recidivism. Additionally, he has authored the book "View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty," offering an intimate portrayal of his personal journey while exploring the philosophies that influenced his transformation. As you embark on your intellectual journey, join Michael Leibowitz as he advocates for reason, individualism, and the pursuit of self-interest, inspiring others to embrace a philosophy that empowers and uplifts the human spirit. For a deeper exploration of his ideas and insights, don't miss the opportunity to read "Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime," co-authored by Michael Leibowitz. And also, delve into his book "View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty." Both books are available for purchase using the following links: "Down the Rabbit Hole": https://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064X" View from a Cage": https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj

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