The Rational Egoist

The Rational Egoist

By The Rational Egoist with Michael LiebowitzSociety & CulturePhilosophy
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The Rational Egoist episodes

  • Discussing Economic Inequality with Robert F. Mulligan

    Discussing Economic Inequality with Robert F. Mulligan


    In this episode of The Rational Egoist, Michael Liebowitz sits down with economist Robert F. Mulligan to discuss one of the most debated issues in modern economics—economic inequality.


    Dr. Mulligan brings a rigorous, data-driven perspective to the conversation, examining what inequality actually measures, whether it’s inherently unjust, and how government intervention often worsens the very disparities it claims to solve. Together, they explore the moral and economic implications of wealth distribution, the dangers of envy-based policies, and why freedom—not forced equality—is the foundation for human flourishing.


    Dr. Mulligan holds a BS in Civil Engineering from the Illinois Institute of Technology, and both an MA and PhD in Economics from the State University of New York at Binghamton. He also earned an Advanced Studies Certificate in International Economic Policy Research from the Institut fuer Weltwirtschaft Kiel in Germany. His academic career includes teaching positions at SUNY Binghamton, Clarkson University, and Western Carolina University, where he has inspired countless students to think critically about markets, policy, and individual choice.

    Read more here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1630691836/ref=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cso_cp_apin_dp_HHGKSW9Z8Y3HVXHGBSHB

    🎧 Tune in for an intellectually grounded discussion on the true meaning of fairness, productivity, and liberty in a free society.


    About Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational Egoist


    Michael Liebowitz is the host of The Rational Egoist podcast, a philosopher, author, and political activist committed to the principles of reason, individualism, and rational self-interest. Deeply influenced by the philosophy of Ayn Rand, Michael uses his platform to challenge cultural dogma, expose moral contradictions, and defend the values that make human flourishing possible.


    His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to becoming a respected voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities is a testament to the transformative power of philosophy. Today, Michael speaks, writes, and debates passionately in defence of individual rights and intellectual clarity.


    He is the co-author of two compelling books that examine the failures of the correctional system and the redemptive power of moral conviction:


    Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Corrections Encourages Crime

    https://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064X


    View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty

    https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj


    About Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational Egoist


    Xenia Ioannou is the producer of The Rational Egoist, overseeing the publishing and promotion of each episode to reflect a consistent standard of clarity, professionalism, and intellectual integrity.


    As a CEO, property manager, entrepreneur, and lifelong advocate for capitalism and individual rights, Xenia ensures the podcast stays true to its core values of reason, freedom, and personal responsibility.


    Xenia also leads Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup in Adelaide, where passionate thinkers gather to discuss Ayn Rand’s ideas and their application to life, politics, and culture.


    Join us at: https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/


    (Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup)


    Because freedom is worth thinking about—and talking about.


    Follow Life on Purpose – Xenia’s thought-provoking essays at her Substack:

    https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menu


    #EconomicInequality #RobertFMulligan #TheRationalEgoist #MichaelLiebowitz #AynRand #Objectivism #FreeMarkets #IndividualRights #Reason #Liberty

    45 min
  • What is Metacognition, and Why Do You Need to Know? – With Kristen Carter, M.S.

    What is Metacognition, and Why Do You Need to Know? – With Kristen Carter, M.S.


    In this episode, Michael Liebowitz is joined by Kristen Carter, M.S., founder of Design for Fitness, LLC. With over 30 years of experience in fitness and nutrition, Kristen brings a unique perspective that integrates psychology, motivation, and health. Together, they explore the concept of metacognition—the ability to think about your own thinking—and why understanding it can transform not only your approach to fitness and nutrition but your entire life.


    From breaking bad habits to improving self-awareness, Kristen explains how metacognition helps you recognize the patterns behind your decisions, build better strategies for change, and ultimately align your mind and body toward rational self-improvement.


    Kristen is the creator of the Design for Fitness Health and Fitness Blog and contributor to the Psychology Today blog Health and Human Nature, where she bridges science, psychology, and practical wisdom to help people live healthier, more deliberate lives.


    Learn more about Kristen’s work here:

    https://www.designforfitness.com/

    https://a.co/d/6YVEzQN


    Read her Psychology Today blog here:

    https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/health-and-human-nature


    About Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational Egoist


    Michael Liebowitz is the host of The Rational Egoist podcast, a philosopher, author, and political activist committed to the principles of reason, individualism, and rational self-interest. Deeply influenced by the philosophy of Ayn Rand, Michael uses his platform to challenge cultural dogma, expose moral contradictions, and defend the values that make human flourishing possible.


    His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to becoming a respected voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities is a testament to the transformative power of philosophy. Today, Michael speaks, writes, and debates passionately in defence of individual rights and intellectual clarity.


    He is the co-author of two compelling books that examine the failures of the correctional system and the redemptive power of moral conviction:


    Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Corrections Encourages Crime

    https://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064X


    View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty

    https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj


    About Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational Egoist


    Xenia Ioannou is the producer of The Rational Egoist, overseeing the publishing and promotion of each episode to reflect a consistent standard of clarity, professionalism, and intellectual integrity.


    As a CEO, property manager, entrepreneur, and lifelong advocate for capitalism and individual rights, Xenia ensures the podcast stays true to its core values of reason, freedom, and personal responsibility.


    Xenia also leads Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup in Adelaide, where passionate thinkers gather to discuss Ayn Rand’s ideas and their application to life, politics, and culture.


    Join us at: https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/


    (Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup)


    Follow Xenia’s thought-provoking essays at her Substack:

    https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menu


    Because freedom is worth thinking about—and talking about.


    #TheRationalEgoist #MichaelLiebowitz #KristenCarter #DesignForFitness #Metacognition #FitnessMindset #RationalSelfInterest #Objectivism #PsychologyToday #AynRand #SelfAwareness #Reason #Individualism

    33 min
  • Rob Tracinski Discusses His New Book, “Dictator from Day One: How Donald Trump is Overthrowing the Constitution and How to Fight Back.

    Rob Tracinski Discusses His New Book, “Dictator from Day One: How Donald Trump is Overthrowing the Constitution and How to Fight Back.”


    Rob Tracinski joins The Rational Egoist to discuss his latest book, Dictator from Day One: How Donald Trump is Overthrowing the Constitution and How to Fight Back.


    Tracinski studied philosophy at the University of Chicago and has been a writer, lecturer, and commentator for more than 25 years. He is the editor of Symposium: A Journal of Political Liberalism, a columnist for Discourse Magazine, and the author of The Tracinski Letter, where he writes on politics, culture, and philosophy from a pro-reason, pro-liberty perspective.


    Get the book here:

    https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FQNZN9VT?ref=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cso_cp_apin_dp_2K0N0NNFZGM29GRPEDXX&ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cso_cp_apin_dp_2K0N0NNFZGM29GRPEDXX&social_share=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cso_cp_apin_dp_2K0N0NNFZGM29GRPEDXX&bestFormat=true&titleSource=true


    Read more of Rob’s work:

    https://www.tracinskiletter.com/


    About Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational Egoist


    Michael Liebowitz is the host of The Rational Egoist podcast, a philosopher, author, and political activist committed to the principles of reason, individualism, and rational self-interest. Deeply influenced by the philosophy of Ayn Rand, Michael uses his platform to challenge cultural dogma, expose moral contradictions, and defend the values that make human flourishing possible.


    His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to becoming a respected voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities is a testament to the transformative power of philosophy. Today, Michael speaks, writes, and debates passionately in defence of individual rights and intellectual clarity.


    He is the co-author of two compelling books that examine the failures of the correctional system and the redemptive power of moral conviction:


    Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Corrections Encourages Crime

    https://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064X


    View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty

    https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj


    About Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational Egoist


    Xenia Ioannou is the producer of The Rational Egoist, overseeing the publishing and promotion of each episode to reflect a consistent standard of clarity, professionalism, and intellectual integrity.


    As a CEO, property manager, entrepreneur, and lifelong advocate for capitalism and individual rights, Xenia ensures the podcast stays true to its core values of reason, freedom, and personal responsibility.


    Xenia also leads Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup in Adelaide, where passionate thinkers gather to discuss Ayn Rand’s ideas and their application to life, politics, and culture.


    Join us at: https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/


    (Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup)


    Because freedom is worth thinking about—and talking about.


    Follow Life on Purpose – Xenia's thought-provoking essays at her Substack:

    https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menu


    #TheRationalEgoist #RobTracinski #DictatorFromDayOne #Objectivism #Liberty #Reason #IndividualRights #Philosophy #AynRand #MichaelLiebowitz

    1 hr 19 min
  • Phil Magness Joins the Show to Debunk Much of the 1619 Project

    Phil Magness Joins the Show to Debunk Much of the 1619 Project


    Phil Magness is an economic historian whose work focuses on the United States and the broader Atlantic world. His research explores the intersection of history and political economy, including the 19th century as well as longer-term trends in the macroeconomy such as taxation, trade, and economic inequality.


    In this episode, Phil joins Michael to critically examine and debunk key claims made by The 1619 Project, addressing its historical inaccuracies, political motivations, and the broader implications of rewriting America’s founding through a lens of perpetual victimhood. This is a conversation about truth, evidence, and the dangers of ideological distortion in historical scholarship.


    🎧 Listen now on your favorite podcast platform.


    About Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational Egoist


    Michael Liebowitz is the host of The Rational Egoist podcast, a philosopher, author, and political activist committed to the principles of reason, individualism, and rational self-interest. Deeply influenced by the philosophy of Ayn Rand, Michael uses his platform to challenge cultural dogma, expose moral contradictions, and defend the values that make human flourishing possible.


    His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to becoming a respected voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities is a testament to the transformative power of philosophy. Today, Michael speaks, writes, and debates passionately in defence of individual rights and intellectual clarity.


    He is the co-author of two compelling books that examine the failures of the correctional system and the redemptive power of moral conviction:


    Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Corrections Encourages Crime

    https://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064X


    View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty

    https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj


    About Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational Egoist


    Xenia Ioannou is the producer of The Rational Egoist, overseeing the publishing and promotion of each episode to reflect a consistent standard of clarity, professionalism, and intellectual integrity.


    As a CEO, property manager, entrepreneur, and lifelong advocate for capitalism and individual rights, Xenia ensures the podcast stays true to its core values of reason, freedom, and personal responsibility.


    Xenia also leads Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup in Adelaide, where passionate thinkers gather to discuss Ayn Rand’s ideas and their application to life, politics, and culture.


    Join us at: https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/


    (Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup)


    Follow Life on Purpose — Xenia's thought-provoking essays at her Substack:

    https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menu


    #TheRationalEgoist #PhilMagness #1619Project #History #Economics #IndividualRights #Objectivism #Liberty #Reason #Truth

    42 min
  • Overcoming Negative Self-Talk – with Betsy Holmberg, Ph.D.

    Overcoming Negative Self-Talk – with Betsy Holmberg, Ph.D.


    Betsy Holmberg, Ph.D., joins the show to discuss how to overcome negative self-talk and the traps of overthinking. An award-winning psychologist, Betsy has devoted her career to understanding and addressing the inner critic that undermines mental health and self-confidence.


    Before becoming an author and therapist, Betsy led the mental health service line at McKinsey & Company and conducted groundbreaking research at Harvard University on self-injury and suicide. She is trained in EMDR, DBT, and CBT therapies, and earned her B.A., M.A., and Ph.D. from Duke University.


    Her new book offers powerful insights and tools for breaking free from destructive thought patterns:

    https://www.amazon.com/dp/1648484719?ref=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cso_cp_apin_dp_MEZ95QCT2HWSAA46M8FK&ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cso_cp_apin_dp_MEZ95QCT2HWSAA46M8FK&social_share=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cso_cp_apin_dp_MEZ95QCT2HWSAA46M8FK&bestFormat=true


    About Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational Egoist


    Michael Liebowitz is the host of The Rational Egoist podcast, a philosopher, author, and political activist committed to the principles of reason, individualism, and rational self-interest. Deeply influenced by the philosophy of Ayn Rand, Michael uses his platform to challenge cultural dogma, expose moral contradictions, and defend the values that make human flourishing possible.


    His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to becoming a respected voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities is a testament to the transformative power of philosophy. Today, Michael speaks, writes, and debates passionately in defence of individual rights and intellectual clarity.


    He is the co-author of two compelling books that examine the failures of the correctional system and the redemptive power of moral conviction:


    Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Corrections Encourages Crime

    https://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064X


    View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty

    https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj


    About Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational Egoist


    Xenia Ioannou is the producer of The Rational Egoist, overseeing the publishing and promotion of each episode to reflect a consistent standard of clarity, professionalism, and intellectual integrity.


    As a CEO, property manager, entrepreneur, and lifelong advocate for capitalism and individual rights, Xenia ensures the podcast stays true to its core values of reason, freedom, and personal responsibility.


    Xenia also leads Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup in Adelaide, where passionate thinkers gather to discuss Ayn Rand’s ideas and their application to life, politics, and culture.


    Join us at: https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/


    (Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup)


    Because freedom is worth thinking about—and talking about.


    Follow Life on Purpose – Xenia's thought-provoking essays at her Substack:

    https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menu


    #SelfTalk #Overthinking #Psychology #RationalEgoistPodcast #Objectivism #MentalHealth

    39 min
  • Robert Begley Joins the Show to Discuss His New Book Voices of Reason: Lessons for Liberty’s Leaders

    Robert Begley Joins the Show to Discuss His New Book Voices of Reason: Lessons for Liberty’s Leaders


    The audio is now available! Robert Begley joins Michael to talk about his new book Voices of Reason: Lessons for Liberty’s Leaders. Together they explore what makes a truly great communicator, the timeless principles behind effective speech, and why mastering the art of communication is essential for advancing liberty.


    Get the book here: https://a.co/d/4EcBK5h

    visit the website here: https://speakingwithpurpose.llc/


    About Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational Egoist


    Michael Liebowitz is the host of The Rational Egoist podcast, a philosopher, author, and political activist committed to the principles of reason, individualism, and rational self-interest. Deeply influenced by the philosophy of Ayn Rand, Michael uses his platform to challenge cultural dogma, expose moral contradictions, and defend the values that make human flourishing possible.


    His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to becoming a respected voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities is a testament to the transformative power of philosophy. Today, Michael speaks, writes, and debates passionately in defence of individual rights and intellectual clarity.


    He is the co-author of two compelling books that examine the failures of the correctional system and the redemptive power of moral conviction:


    Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Corrections Encourages Crime

    https://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064X


    View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty

    https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj


    About Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational Egoist


    Xenia Ioannou is the producer of The Rational Egoist, overseeing the publishing and promotion of each episode to reflect a consistent standard of clarity, professionalism, and intellectual integrity.


    As a CEO, property manager, entrepreneur, and lifelong advocate for capitalism and individual rights, Xenia ensures the podcast stays true to its core values of reason, freedom, and personal responsibility.


    Xenia also leads Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup in Adelaide, where passionate thinkers gather to discuss Ayn Rand’s ideas and their application to life, politics, and culture.


    Join us at: https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/


    (Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup)

    Because freedom is worth thinking about—and talking about.


    Follow Life on Purpose – Xenia's thought-provoking essays at her Substack:

    https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menu


    #VoicesOfReason #RobertBegley #SpeakingWithPurpose #GreatCommunicators #RationalEgoist #MichaelLiebowitz #Objectivism #Liberty

    46 min
  • Objective Investing for The Middle Class – with Mark Shupe

    Objective Investing for The Middle Class – with Mark Shupe


    Mark Shupe joins Michael Liebowitz on The Rational Egoist to discuss the principles of investing through the lens of Objectivism. Mark is an Objectivist, an author, and an investor who has developed a unique approach to wealth-building for everyday people. His work focuses on empowering the middle class to think rationally about money and investment strategies rather than chasing trends or relying on conventional “expert” wisdom.


    Mark is the author of The Moneyball Method: Investing for the Middle Class, which applies clear, objective principles to help investors make smarter decisions:

    https://www.amazon.com/dp/1696009111


    He also publishes The Moneyball Method on Substack, where he shares regular insights on investing, finance, and rational decision-making:

    https://moneyballmethod.substack.com/


    This episode explores how Objectivist principles—reason, self-interest, and long-range thinking—can be applied directly to the way we handle money, build wealth, and secure financial independence.


    About Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational Egoist


    Michael Liebowitz is the host of The Rational Egoist podcast, a philosopher, author, and political activist committed to the principles of reason, individualism, and rational self-interest. Deeply influenced by the philosophy of Ayn Rand, Michael uses his platform to challenge cultural dogma, expose moral contradictions, and defend the values that make human flourishing possible.


    His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to becoming a respected voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities is a testament to the transformative power of philosophy. Today, Michael speaks, writes, and debates passionately in defence of individual rights and intellectual clarity.


    He is the co-author of two compelling books that examine the failures of the correctional system and the redemptive power of moral conviction:


    Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Corrections Encourages Crime

    https://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064X


    View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty

    https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj


    About Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational Egoist


    Xenia Ioannou is the producer of The Rational Egoist, overseeing the publishing and promotion of each episode to reflect a consistent standard of clarity, professionalism, and intellectual integrity.


    As a CEO, property manager, entrepreneur, and lifelong advocate for capitalism and individual rights, Xenia ensures the podcast stays true to its core values of reason, freedom, and personal responsibility.


    Xenia also leads Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup in Adelaide, where passionate thinkers gather to discuss Ayn Rand’s ideas and their application to life, politics, and culture.


    Join us at: https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/


    (Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup)

    Because freedom is worth thinking about—and talking about.


    Follow Life on Purpose – Xenia's thought-provoking essays at her Substack:

    https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menu


    Hashtags:

    #Investing #Objectivism #RationalEgoism #WealthBuilding #MiddleClass #MoneyballMethod #AynRand #FinancialIndependence

    35 min
  • Discussing Million Dollar Baby with Professor Andrew Bernstein

    Discussing Million Dollar Baby with Professor Andrew Bernstein


    In this episode of The Rational Egoist, Michael Liebowitz is joined by philosopher and author Professor Andrew Bernstein for a deep dive into Clint Eastwood’s acclaimed film Million Dollar Baby. Together they unpack the philosophical themes embedded in the story—from the value of ambition and the human will to the moral and cultural implications of the film’s controversial ending.


    Professor Bernstein brings his Objectivist perspective to the discussion, exploring how the movie confronts issues of life, death, choice, and the role of reason in navigating tragedy. Whether you’re a fan of the film or interested in the ethical debates it raises, this conversation offers a thoughtful lens through which to view one of Hollywood’s most talked-about dramas.


    About Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational Egoist


    Michael Liebowitz is the host of The Rational Egoist podcast, a philosopher, author, and political activist committed to the principles of reason, individualism, and rational self-interest. Deeply influenced by the philosophy of Ayn Rand, Michael uses his platform to challenge cultural dogma, expose moral contradictions, and defend the values that make human flourishing possible.


    His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to becoming a respected voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities is a testament to the transformative power of philosophy. Today, Michael speaks, writes, and debates passionately in defence of individual rights and intellectual clarity.


    He is the co-author of two compelling books that examine the failures of the correctional system and the redemptive power of moral conviction:


    Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Corrections Encourages Crime

    https://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064X


    View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty

    https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj


    About Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational Egoist


    Xenia Ioannou is the producer of The Rational Egoist, overseeing the publishing and promotion of each episode to reflect a consistent standard of clarity, professionalism, and intellectual integrity.


    As a CEO, property manager, entrepreneur, and lifelong advocate for capitalism and individual rights, Xenia ensures the podcast stays true to its core values of reason, freedom, and personal responsibility.


    Xenia also leads Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup in Adelaide, where passionate thinkers gather to discuss Ayn Rand’s ideas and their application to life, politics, and culture.


    Join us at: https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/


    (Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup)


    Because freedom is worth thinking about—and talking about.


    Follow Life on Purpose—Xenia's thought-provoking essays at her Substack:

    https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menu


    #MillionDollarBaby #AndrewBernstein #TheRationalEgoist #Philosophy #Objectivism #AynRand #FilmAnalysis #Ethics

    43 min
  • The Link Between Victim Mentalities and Belief in Conspiracy Theories - Matthew Facciani Ph.D

    Matthew Facciani Ph.D is here to Discuss the Link Between Victim Mentalities and Belief in Conspiracy Theories


    On this episode of The Rational Egoist, Michael sits down with Matthew Facciani, Ph.D.—an interdisciplinary social scientist whose work bridges neuroscience, psychology, and sociology. With a doctorate in sociology, Dr. Facciani’s research dives deep into how misinformation spreads, how social networks shape beliefs, and why political polarization and identity play such powerful roles in our culture.


    In this conversation, Michael and Dr. Facciani explore the connection between victim mentalities and susceptibility to conspiracy theories—why some people are drawn to narratives of persecution, and how this mindset feeds into distorted views of reality. They also discuss the importance of media literacy, the psychology of belief, and the cultural consequences of misinformation in the age of artificial intelligence.


    About Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational Egoist


    Michael Liebowitz is the host of The Rational Egoist podcast, a philosopher, author, and political activist committed to the principles of reason, individualism, and rational self-interest. Deeply influenced by the philosophy of Ayn Rand, Michael uses his platform to challenge cultural dogma, expose moral contradictions, and defend the values that make human flourishing possible.


    His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to becoming a respected voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities is a testament to the transformative power of philosophy. Today, Michael speaks, writes, and debates passionately in defence of individual rights and intellectual clarity.


    He is the co-author of two compelling books that examine the failures of the correctional system and the redemptive power of moral conviction:


    Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Corrections Encourages Crime

    https://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064X


    View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty

    https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj


    About Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational Egoist


    Xenia Ioannou is the producer of The Rational Egoist, overseeing the publishing and promotion of each episode to reflect a consistent standard of clarity, professionalism, and intellectual integrity.


    As a CEO, property manager, entrepreneur, and lifelong advocate for capitalism and individual rights, Xenia ensures the podcast stays true to its core values of reason, freedom, and personal responsibility.


    Xenia also leads Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup in Adelaide, where passionate thinkers gather to discuss Ayn Rand’s ideas and their application to life, politics, and culture.


    Join us at: https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/


    (Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup)


    Because freedom is worth thinking about—and talking about.


    Follow Life on Purpose—Xenia's thought-provoking essays at her Substack:

    https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menu


    #VictimMentality #ConspiracyTheories #Misinformation #RationalEgoist #Objectivism #Reason #Individualism

    34 min
  • Discussing Economics with Vance Ginn

    Discussing Economics with Vance Ginn


    In this episode, Michael Liebowitz is joined by Vance Ginn, PhD—founder and president of Ginn Economic Consulting, Associate Research Fellow at the American Institute for Economic Research (AIER), staff economist at Americans for Tax Reform, and contributor to more than 20 think tanks.


    Dr. Ginn brings his extensive background in public policy and economics to the discussion, including his experience as Associate Director for Economic Policy at the White House Office of Management and Budget from June 2019 to May 2020. Together, he and Michael explore pressing economic issues, government policy, and the principles that drive prosperity and freedom.


    About Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational Egoist


    Michael Liebowitz is the host of The Rational Egoist podcast, a philosopher, author, and political activist committed to the principles of reason, individualism, and rational self-interest. Deeply influenced by the philosophy of Ayn Rand, Michael uses his platform to challenge cultural dogma, expose moral contradictions, and defend the values that make human flourishing possible.


    His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to becoming a respected voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities is a testament to the transformative power of philosophy. Today, Michael speaks, writes, and debates passionately in defence of individual rights and intellectual clarity.


    He is the co-author of two compelling books that examine the failures of the correctional system and the redemptive power of moral conviction:


    Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Corrections Encourages Crime

    https://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064X


    View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty

    https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj


    About Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational Egoist


    Xenia Ioannou is the producer of The Rational Egoist, overseeing the publishing and promotion of each episode to reflect a consistent standard of clarity, professionalism, and intellectual integrity.


    As a CEO, property manager, entrepreneur, and lifelong advocate for capitalism and individual rights, Xenia ensures the podcast stays true to its core values of reason, freedom, and personal responsibility.


    Xenia also leads Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup in Adelaide, where passionate thinkers gather to discuss Ayn Rand’s ideas and their application to life, politics, and culture.


    Join us at: https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/


    (Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup)


    Because freedom is worth thinking about—and talking about.


    Follow Life on Purpose—Xenia's thought-provoking essays at her Substack:

    https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menu


    Hashtags:

    #Economics #VanceGinn #RationalEgoistPodcast #Liberty #Capitalism #PublicPolicy #Objectivism #EconomicFreedom #FreeMarkets

    42 min

About The Rational Egoist

From the publisher's feed

The Rational Egoist podcast aims to explore the philosophy of rational egoism and how it can be applied in our daily lives. Hosted by Michael Liebowitz and produced by Xenia Ioannou with experts in the field of philosophy, psychology, and economics, the podcast will provide listeners with a wealth of knowledge and insight into the benefits of rational egoism.

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