The Rational Egoist: Celebrating Milton Friedman with Steven Landsburg

In this engaging episode of The Rational Egoist, host Michael Liebowitz welcomes Steven Landsburg, Professor of Economics at the University of Rochester and the mind behind the thought-provoking blog "The Big Questions." Together, they pay tribute to Milton Friedman, one of the most influential economists of the 20th century, whose ideas on free markets, individual liberty, and the limits of government intervention continue to resonate in today's economic and political discourse.

Landsburg brings his deep understanding of economic theory and a keen appreciation for Friedman’s contributions to explore the enduring legacy of Friedman's work. The episode delves into Friedman’s most groundbreaking concepts, such as the importance of monetary policy, the power of the market in allocating resources efficiently, and the concept of the "invisible hand" that guides individual self-interest towards collective benefit.

Listeners will gain insights into how Friedman's theories have shaped contemporary economic policies and debates, from the argument for school vouchers to the case against corporate social responsibility in favour of shareholder primacy. Landsburg shares anecdotes from Friedman’s life, highlighting his ability to communicate complex ideas to the public and his unwavering commitment to his principles.

The conversation also addresses criticisms of Friedman’s work, offering a balanced perspective on his influence and the challenges of applying his theories in a complex, globalized economy. Throughout the episode, Landsburg and Liebowitz engage in a vibrant discussion that not only honors Milton Friedman's legacy but also encourages listeners to critically assess the application of his ideas in the modern world.

Join The Rational Egoist for a fascinating journey into the mind of Milton Friedman, guided by the expertise of Professor Steven Landsburg. Whether you're an economics aficionado or simply curious about the ideas that have shaped our world, this episode is a testament to the power of free-market principles and the enduring relevance of Friedman’s vision.

Michael Leibowitz, host of The Rational Egoist podcast, is a philosopher and political activist who draws inspiration from Ayn Rand’s philosophy, advocating for reason, rational self-interest, and individualism. His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to a prominent voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities highlights the transformative impact of embracing these principles.

Leibowitz actively participates in political debates and produces content aimed at promoting individual rights and freedoms. He is the co-author of “Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime” and “View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty,” which explore societal issues and his personal evolution through Rand’s teachings.Explore his work and journey further through his books:“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