Podcasts about Ayn Rand

Fuentes vs Piers; Illegal Immigrants; Nvidia; Farm Subsidies; Japan; EU | Yaron Brook Show

Pardons; Netflix; JD Vance; Tucker & Qatar; Millionaires; Russia; China; Hamas | Yaron Brook Show

In this compelling episode of The Rational Egoist, Michael Liebowitz sits down once again with author, prosecutor, and philosopher James Stevens Valliant to tackle a recurring confusion in libertarian circles: the attempt to merge individual-rights philosophy with anarchism — a fusion often labelled “anarcho-Objectivism.”Michael and James examine why this hybrid collapses on its own premises. They break down the essential role of objective law, the necessity of a single rights-protecting legal framework, and why competing private “justice agencies” cannot uphold rights but inevitably devolve into private warlords.The discussion cuts through romantic rhetoric about “voluntary governance” and focuses instead on the practical requirements of living in a civilised society: clear laws, a monopoly on retaliatory force, and institutions bound by objective standards. Without these, rights aren't defended — they're extinguished.James draws on history, legal philosophy, and decades of work studying the moral foundations of liberty. Michael brings his trademark clarity: a deeply lived understanding of what happens when law is arbitrary, when justice fragments into competing factions, and when force is no longer restrained by principle.Together, they demonstrate why any view that rejects government altogether cannot claim to defend freedom. A society without a single, rights-protecting legal structure doesn't maximise liberty — it destroys the conditions that make liberty possible.This episode is essential listening for anyone who has ever wondered why a rights-based philosophy necessitates government — and why eliminating government doesn't lead to freedom, but to the rule of the sword.About Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational EgoistMichael 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 Crimehttps://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064XView from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Libertyhttps://books2read.com/u/4jN6xjAbout Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational EgoistXenia 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 on Substack:https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menuHashtags#TheRationalEgoist #MichaelLiebowitz #JamesValliant #PhilosophyPodcast #IndividualRights #RuleOfLaw #LibertarianDebate #ClassicalLiberalism #Reason #MoralClarity

The Crisis of Meaning; Reviews | Yaron Brook Show

National Security Strategy; Pipe Bombs; Eurovision--Why Care About Israel? : Yaron Brook Show

POUR COMMANDER MON LIVRE : Sur Amazon : https://amzn.to/3ZMm4CY Sur Fnac.com : https://tidd.ly/4dWJZ8ONous vivons dans un monde qui valorise l'altruisme, la générosité et le don de soi. Selon cette vision, être égoïste serait un défaut, voire un vice. Mais se pourrait-il que les choses soient beaucoup plus compliquées que cela, et que l'égoïsme, loin d'être condamnable, soit en réalité une vertu ? C'est en tout cas la position d'Ayn Rand, que je vous propose de découvrir aujourd'hui.---Envie d'aller plus loin ? Rejoignez-moi sur Patreon pour accéder à tout mon contenu supplémentaire.

Catherine Dickerson on the Benevolence of ReasonIn this episode, Michael sits down with Catherine Dickerson for a deeply grounded conversation about what it means to live in a universe where reason is your ally, not your adversary.Drawing from 35 years of experience in education and psychotherapy—and her time as personal assistant to Dr Leonard Peikoff—Catherine brings a rare combination of philosophical depth and practical psychological insight. Together, she and Michael explore the benevolent nature of reality, why clarity is a moral achievement, and how choosing to think transforms your ability to deal with life.This discussion moves beyond abstractions. Catherine explains how rational thinking reshapes your emotional world, why confusion isn't a permanent state, and how a commitment to understanding can lift people out of stagnation. Michael pushes the conversation to the places where philosophy meets daily struggle—self-doubt, mental habits, emotional fallout, and the quiet moments where your mind either becomes your greatest tool or your biggest obstacle.If you've ever felt the pull between the world as it is and the world as you wish it could be, this episode offers a powerful reminder: the world doesn't have to be hostile, chaotic, or unknowable. A rational mind isn't at war with existence—it is designed for it.This is one of those episodes where you'll want to pause, think, and maybe even take notes.About Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational EgoistMichael 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 Crimehttps://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064XView from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Libertyhttps://books2read.com/u/4jN6xjAbout Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational EgoistXenia 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 essays at her Substack, Life on Purpose:https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menuGuest Bio – Catherine DickersonCatherine Dickerson is an Objectivist with 35 years of professional experience in education and psychotherapy. She served as personal assistant to Dr Leonard Peikoff and brings a lifetime of reflection, study, and practical application of philosophical principles to the field of mental health and human development.#TheRationalEgoist #Reason #PhilosophyPodcast #LeonardPeikoff #ObjectivistPsychology #AynRand #RationalMind #Individualism #LifeOnPurpose

Nostalgia; Birth Rates; Talent & Immigration; Climate Change; Hegseth; News: Yaron Brook Show

Drug War; HK Fire; Failure; NATO; Swiss Tax; Costco; Fuentes; Waymo | Yaron Brook Show

MN Fraud; Disability; Russia; Israel; Bannon; Yarvin; Piker; Opera; Birth Rates : Yaron Brook show

The question isn't who is going to let me; it's who is going to stop me. – Ayn Rand Check out John Lee Dumas' award winning Podcast Entrepreneurs on Fire on your favorite podcast directory. For world class free courses and resources to help you on your Entrepreneurial journey visit EOFire.com

Ukraine; Venezuela; Pardons; Trump's Indecency; Settler Violence; Waymo; China | Yaron Brook Show

This lecture discusses key ideas from the 20th century philosopher and novelist Ayn Rand's book The Virtue of Selfishness, in particular the chapter "The Ethics of Emergencies" This focuses specifically on her discussion about what an emergency is, why bad ethics results from taking emergency cases as normative, and when one ought to be willing to risk one's own life or values for during an emergency To support my ongoing work, go to my Patreon site - www.patreon.com/sadler If you'd like to make a direct contribution, you can do so here - www.paypal.me/ReasonIO - or at BuyMeACoffee - www.buymeacoffee.com/A4quYdWoM You can find over 3500 philosophy videos in my main YouTube channel - www.youtube.com/user/gbisadler Purchase Rand's The Virtue Of Selfishness - https://amzn.to/43pJmjU

Jim Valliant and Michael Continue Their Series on Using Objectivism: The Philosophy of Ayn Rand as a Guide to Self-Improvement. In This Episode, They Dive Into Chapter Two: “Sense Perception and Volition.”In this new instalment, Michael and Jim explore how the most fundamental aspects of human awareness shape everything from our daily decisions to our long-range ambitions.They take listeners through the core insights of Chapter Two—how we grasp reality through our senses, how automatic perception differs from chosen cognition, and why volition is the root of every meaningful act of self-improvement.This isn't an academic detour. It's a conversation about what it means to live with your eyes open—what it means to build your life on facts rather than feelings, and to recognise that the choice to think is the first moral choice you ever make.Whether you're new to Ayn Rand's philosophy or using OPAR as a personal roadmap, this episode offers a clear, grounded discussion on the tools you already possess: a reality-oriented consciousness and the ability to direct it.About Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational EgoistMichael 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 Crimehttps://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064XView from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Libertyhttps://books2read.com/u/4jN6xjAbout Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational EgoistXenia 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 on Substack:https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menu#TheRationalEgoist #AynRand #OPAR #ObjectivistPhilosophy #Reason #Volition #SelfImprovement #PhilosophyPodcast #Individualism #RationalLiving

Civilization & The Role of Religion; Song Reviews | Yaron Brook Show

This lecture discusses key ideas from the 20th century philosopher and novelist Ayn Rand's book The Virtue of Selfishness, in particular the chapter "The Objectivist Ethics" This focuses specifically on her discussion of how love and friendship are properly understood selfish or self-centered relations to other people To support my ongoing work, go to my Patreon site - www.patreon.com/sadler If you'd like to make a direct contribution, you can do so here - www.paypal.me/ReasonIO - or at BuyMeACoffee - www.buymeacoffee.com/A4quYdWoM You can find over 3500 philosophy videos in my main YouTube channel - www.youtube.com/user/gbisadler Purchase Rand's The Virtue Of Selfishness - https://amzn.to/43pJmjU

AMA & Hangout with Contributors (Nov 2025) | Yaron Brook ShowRecorded live on November 29, 2025url: https://youtube.com/live/JqVChuQkvVkAyn Rand, AI, Altruism & the Future of the West — Live AMA with Yaron BrookThe most unfiltered Yaron Brook AMA of 2025.Ideas, controversies, philosophy, geopolitics, art, education, Objectivism, nationalism, Christianity, AI, and the fate of Western civilization — nothing is off the table.If you want to understand the world through the lens of reason, individualism, and freedom, this is the conversation you won't want to miss.⏱️ Timestamps Main Topics0:00 – Opening remarks1:14 – Upcoming shows, themes & Super Chat panel2:16 – AI-generated art & the philosophy of education10:07 – Problems in modern education & Rand's view of ideas13:57 – Debate reflections & the rise of white nationalism20:09 – Lessons from Vietnam & the legacy of post-WWII colonies26:23 – Conservatives, America's founding & Objectivism's influence31:27 – Yaron's daily routine & importance of exercise37:27 – Altruism & the erosion of individual rights52:02 – Media scandals & Christianity's influence on medicine58:53 – Favorite dinners & RANDS Day updates1:03:14 – Coming guests, topics, and reality vs. perception

DC Shooting & Immigration; Luddites; Zionism; Abolition; Facts, Poverty & Lies | Yaron Brook Show

POUR COMMANDER MON LIVRE : Sur Amazon : https://amzn.to/3ZMm4CY Sur Fnac.com : https://tidd.ly/4dWJZ8OExtrait de l'épisode AYN RAND - L'égoïsme est une vertuCet épisode sera publié sur YouTube et en podcast vendredi prochain le 5 décembreIl est d'ores et déjà disponible en intégralité sur ma page Patreon : https://www.patreon.com/posts/141707853---Envie d'aller plus loin ? Rejoignez-moi sur Patreon pour accéder à tout mon contenu supplémentaire.

This lecture discusses key ideas from the 20th Century rational egoist philosopher and novelist Ayn Rand's book, The Virtue Of Selfishness. It focuses specifically upon her discussion of the virtues she recognizes - rationality, productivity, pride, independence, integrity, honesty, and justice. To support my ongoing work, go to my Patreon site - www.patreon.com/sadler If you'd like to make a direct contribution, you can do so here - www.paypal.me/ReasonIO - or at BuyMeACoffee - www.buymeacoffee.com/A4quYdWoM You can find over 3500 philosophy videos in my main YouTube channel - www.youtube.com/user/gbisadler Purchase Rand's The Virtue Of Selfishness - https://amzn.to/4oUuym3

Thanksgiving - An American Holiday | Yaron Brook Show

WitkoffGate; Tariffs; UK Budget; Taiwan; Jewish Nuts; Tucker Nuts; Having Kids | Yaron Brook Show

Muslim Brotherhood; Ukraine; China; Mamdani; Deportations; X; AI; Golden Age | Yaron Brook Show

Ukraine; Israel; Mamdani; Obamacare; DOGE; Traitors; indictments; Creedal Nation | Yaron Brook Show

This lecture discusses key ideas from the 20th Century rational egoist philosopher and novelist Ayn Rand's book, The Virtue Of Selfishness. It focuses specifically upon her views about how a rational egoist ought to behave and structure their life, choices, and relationships. To support my ongoing work, go to my Patreon site - www.patreon.com/sadler If you'd like to make a direct contribution, you can do so here - www.paypal.me/ReasonIO - or at BuyMeACoffee - www.buymeacoffee.com/A4quYdWoM You can find over 3500 philosophy videos in my main YouTube channel - www.youtube.com/user/gbisadler Purchase Rand's The Virtue Of Selfishness - https://amzn.to/4oUuym3

Recorded live on November 13, 2025 by the Steamboat Institute, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=769yfyFVt0QIs capitalism truly the moral engine of human flourishing—or does socialism offer a better path?In this sharp, high-stakes debate, Yaron Brook (Ayn Rand Institute) and Bhaskar Sunkara (Jacobin, The Nation) go head-to-head on the fundamental question shaping the future of freedom, prosperity, and the human condition.Hosted by the Steamboat Institute in partnership with the Center for the Study of Government and the Individual, this event brings moral philosophy, economics, politics, and human nature into a collision course.If you care about prosperity, inequality, freedom, or the future of liberal democracy… this debate is essential viewing.00:00 – 13:00 | Welcome & Opening13:00 – 15:00 | Pre-Debate Audience Poll15:00 – 20:00 | Opening Statement – Yaron Brook20:00 – 26:00 | Opening Statement – Bhaskar Sunkara26:00 – 32:00 | What Do “Capitalism” and “Socialism” Actually Mean?32:00 – 34:00 | Who Really Has the Power?34:00 – 40:00 | What Is Human Flourishing?40:00 – 47:00 | Which System Serves Healthcare & Childcare Better?47:00 – 55:00 | What Counts as a “Basic Need”?55:00 – 57:00 | What Should Education Actually Produce?57:00 – 1:00:00 | Are Military & Firefighters “Socialism”? 1:00:00 – 1:03:00 | Do Unskilled Workers Have Power Under Capitalism?1:03:00 – 1:05:00 | What Would It Take to Implement Socialism?1:05:00 – 1:11:00 | Can Socialism Coexist with Human Nature?1:11:00 – 1:19:20 | How Do We Prevent Tyranny?1:19:20 – 1:28:00 | Closing Statements1:28:00 – 1:33:15 | Post-Debate Poll ResultsSocialism promises equality. Capitalism delivers opportunity. Which path leads to real prosperity?

Dr. Andrew Bernstein and Dr. Meghann Ribbens Discuss Some Problems with American EducationIn this episode, Michael sits down with two sharp and unapologetically rational voices—Dr. Andrew Bernstein and Dr. Meghann Ribbens—to unpack what has gone wrong in American education and why so many students are emerging less prepared, less confident, and less capable of independent thought.From the erosion of academic standards to the cultural shift away from personal responsibility, Bernstein and Ribbens explore the deeper moral and philosophical causes behind the crisis. They examine the rise of ideological conformity, the abandonment of facts and logic in favour of emotionalism, and the way government-run schools incentivise mediocrity rather than excellence.Both guests bring decades of experience to the table: Bernstein as an author and philosopher who has written extensively on heroic education and the value of great literature; Ribbens as an educator and scholar who has watched the system decline from the inside. Together, they articulate a clear picture of what education should be—an uplifting, rigorous, confidence-building path centred on knowledge, reasoning, and the joy of achievement.This conversation is direct, principled, and free of euphemisms. It cuts through the noise to identify the root problems and the real solutions.About Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational EgoistMichael 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 Crimehttps://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064XView from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Libertyhttps://books2read.com/u/4jN6xjAbout Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational EgoistXenia 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 on Substack:https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menu#TheRationalEgoist #AndrewBernstein #MeghannRibbens #EducationReform #AmericanEducation #Reason #IndividualRights #Philosophy #Objectivism #Liberty #MichaelLiebowitz #PodcastSeries

This lecture discusses key ideas from the 20th Century rational egoist philosopher and novelist Ayn Rand's book, The Virtue Of Selfishness. It focuses specifically upon her discussion of the difference between other animals and human beings, which has to do with the range and types of consciousness we have. To support my ongoing work, go to my Patreon site - www.patreon.com/sadler If you'd like to make a direct contribution, you can do so here - www.paypal.me/ReasonIO - or at BuyMeACoffee - www.buymeacoffee.com/A4quYdWoM You can find over 3500 philosophy videos in my main YouTube channel - www.youtube.com/user/gbisadler Purchase Rand's The Virtue Of Selfishness - https://amzn.to/4oUuym3

Yaron Interviewed by Adam Friended of the Sitch & Adam Show

This lecture discusses key ideas from the 20th Century rational egoist philosopher and novelist Ayn Rand's book, The Virtue Of Selfishness. It focuses specifically upon her views about values and their grounding in Life (which for humans means a distinctively human life, not merely survival). To support my ongoing work, go to my Patreon site - www.patreon.com/sadler If you'd like to make a direct contribution, you can do so here - www.paypal.me/ReasonIO - or at BuyMeACoffee - www.buymeacoffee.com/A4quYdWoM You can find over 3500 philosophy videos in my main YouTube channel - www.youtube.com/user/gbisadler Purchase Rand's The Virtue Of Selfishness - https://amzn.to/4oUuym3

This lecture discusses key ideas from the 20th century philosopher and novelist Ayn Rand's book The Virtue of Selfishness, in particular the chapter "The Objectivist Ethics" This focuses specifically on her discussion of what she terms "non-rational" ethics, by way of contrast to her own rational egoist or "objectivist ethics". She examines what she calls the "mystic", "social", and "subjectivist" ethics, and criticizes what she views as the "false dichotomy of altruism". To support my ongoing work, go to my Patreon site - www.patreon.com/sadler If you'd like to make a direct contribution, you can do so here - www.paypal.me/ReasonIO - or at BuyMeACoffee - www.buymeacoffee.com/A4quYdWoM You can find over 3500 philosophy videos in my main YouTube channel - www.youtube.com/user/gbisadler Purchase Rand's The Virtue Of Selfishness - https://amzn.to/43pJmjU

Kiyah Willis Discusses Her Journey Out of WokeIn this episode of The Rational Egoist, Michael sits down with Kiyah Willis for a thoughtful and compelling discussion about her intellectual transformation—one that took her from the fog of modern “woke” ideology to a life built on clarity, independence, and personal responsibility.Kiyah is a fellow at the Objective Standard Institute, where she focuses on cultural trends and the ideas driving them. With a degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and a background as a data analyst, she brings a rare blend of technical discipline and philosophical depth. Today, her work examines how faulty cultural narratives take hold, why they spread, and what it takes to break free from them.In this interview, Kiyah shares her journey out of a worldview rooted in guilt, conformity, and emotional pressure—towards a worldview anchored in reality, reason, and the sovereignty of the individual. She explains how intellectual honesty, personal courage, and a willingness to question the dominant culture became essential steps in reclaiming her confidence and her independence of mind.She also talks about her writing, her love for hiking and spending time with her boxer, Apollo, and the broader mission behind her Substack: helping others untangle themselves from the traps of cultural dogma and rediscover the joy of thinking for themselves.A powerful and clear conversation—one that highlights the cost of surrendering your judgment, and the freedom that comes when you choose to reclaim it.About Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational EgoistMichael 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 Crimehttps://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064XView from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Libertyhttps://books2read.com/u/4jN6xjAbout Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational EgoistXenia 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 on Substack:https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menuBecause freedom is worth thinking about—and talking about.#TheRationalEgoist #KiyahWillis #Individualism #Reason #IntellectualFreedom #CulturalTrends #Philosophy #Liberty #IndependentThinking #PodcastEpisode

Blake Scholl is one of the leading figures working to bring back civilian supersonic flight. As the founder and CEO of Boom Supersonic, he's building a new generation of supersonic aircraft and pushing for the policies needed to make commercial supersonic travel viable again. But he's equally as impressive as someone who thinks systematically about improving dysfunction—whether it's airport design, traffic congestion, or defense procurement—and sees creative solutions to problems everyone else has learned to accept.  Tyler and Blake discuss why airport terminals should be underground, why every road needs a toll, what's wrong with how we board planes, the contrasting cultures of Amazon and Groupon, why Concorde and Apollo were impressive tech demos but terrible products, what Ayn Rand understood about supersonic transport in 1957, what's wrong with aerospace manufacturing, his heuristic when confronting evident stupidity, his technique for mastering new domains, how LLMs are revolutionizing regulatory paperwork, and much more. Recorded live at the Progress Conference, hosted by the Roots of Progress Institute. Special thanks to Big Think for the video production. Read a full transcript enhanced with helpful links, or watch the full video on the new dedicated Conversations with Tyler channel. Recorded October 18th, 2025. Other ways to connect Follow us on X and Instagram Follow Tyler on X Follow Blake on X Sign up for our newsletter Join our Discord Email us: cowenconvos@mercatus.gmu.edu Learn more about Conversations with Tyler and other Mercatus Center podcasts here. Photo Credit: Jeremi Rebecca

Saudi Arabia; Epstein; Meta Antitrust; Rent Control; WallMart; Heritage; Japan | Yaron Brook Show

Mamdani; Grade Inflation; Russia's War; Job Mismatch; Redistricting; Good News | Yaron Brook Show

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GgeCG_fGFrk Podcast audio: In this episode of the Ayn Rand Institute podcast, Ben Bayer and Robertas Bakula examine the key arguments supporting the President's tariffs before the Supreme Court and expose their un-American hostility to the rule of law.  Topics include: Background on the case; Defying the rule of law; Hostility to objective legal interpretation; Tariffs are not foreign policy powers; The absence of an “intelligible principle”; Striking down unconstitutional laws; Un-American arguments and policies; Likely and desirable outcomes. Resources:  Ayn Rand Lexicon, “Law, objective and non-objective” Ayn Rand, “The Nature of Government” Ben Bayer, “The Constitutionally Dubious Law Empowering Trump's ‘Emergency' Tariff Authority” Ben Bayer, “The President Has No “Foreign Policy” Discretion To Impose Sweeping Global Tariffs” Ben Bayer, “The Lawyers Defending Trump's Tariffs Know They're Un-American. Here's How We Can Tell” This episode was recorded on November 13, 2025, and posted on November 19, 2025. Listen and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Watch archived podcasts here. Image Credit: David Talukdar / Moment / via Getty Images

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l4zPY_XnfS8 Podcast audio: The Enlightenment's commitment to reason, individualism, and the power of knowledge sparked unprecedented progress in human life. Yet, despite this achievement, contemporary Western societies face deepening crises — mounting political violence, the collapse of alliances of free nations, and a growing support for authoritarian movements. What accounts for this reversal? In his talk, “Saving the Enlightenment,” delivered at ARI's 2025 Objectivist Summer Conference, Onkar Ghate diagnoses the problem at its root: our cultural crises are the aftermath of a crucial philosophical gap left by the Enlightenment. Ghate argues that a key feature of our cultural landscape is “a blind rebellion against an orgy of self-sacrifice.” Crises like 9/11, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the widespread embrace of DEI initiatives marked the unfolding of self-sacrificial policies that cost American lives. Many who now condemn their leaders do not realize how those policies reflect the same moral code they still accept. They embrace alternative ideologies (like nationalism) that channel the same code. So they don't know their real target: their rebellion against “elite” demands for self-sacrifice is “blind.” This blindness, Ghate contends, stems from the Enlightenment's failure to articulate a morality of self-interest. While its philosophers championed reason in science and politics, they never provided an alternative to the ethical frameworks that demanded individuals subordinate their welfare to collective duty. Consequently, modern culture lacks a coherent philosophy that sanctions the individual's right to pursue happiness. To secure the Enlightenment's legacy, Ghate urges, requires adopting an ethical system that validates rational self-interest and personal happiness as moral goods — principles that only Ayn Rand's philosophy of Objectivism fully articulates. Objectivism, in his view, provides “the new morality that's necessary to cement the achievements of the Enlightenment.” Among the topics covered: The Enlightenment and its failure The grip of self-sacrifice Self-sacrifice in the 21st century Today's pseudo-selfishness Objectivism completes the Enlightenment This talk was recorded live on July 2nd in Boston, MA, as part of the 2025 Objectivist Summer Conference, and is available on The Ayn Rand Institute Podcast stream. Listen and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Watch archived podcasts here.

Tariffs; Financial Risk; Epstein; MTG; Hamas; Settlers; Chile; Mexico; UK | Yaron Brook Show

Searching for Meaning - Socialism, Nationalism, Race And The Alternative | Yaron Brook Show

Mossoff on Heritage; Housing; Tariffs; Filibuster; Epstein; War on…? | Yaron Brook Show

From the 100-year mortgage threatening to turn homeownership into a lifetime of debt to a deep dive into Elon Musk's "Makers vs. Takers" philosophy and a debate on whether billionaire philanthropy is a scam...Welcome to the Alfalfa Podcast

Stefan Molyneux unpacks a compelling question from a subscriber about Ayn Rand's claim that epistemology is the highest branch of philosophy. He clarifies his argument that moral philosophy may actually take precedence, unpacking Rand's view that reason equals virtue and serves humanity's flourishing. He challenges this correlation by discussing how individual actions, driven by self-interest, can yield success at odds with societal well-being. He explores discomforting truths about ethics and morality, highlighting contradictions in Rand's arguments and how unethical behavior can sometimes lead to personal success. Stefan also examines Rand's perspectives on societal obligations and the implications for individualism, questioning the effectiveness of a purely reason-based morality in our complex realities. Throughout, Stefan reflects on historical contexts and Rand's life experiences, advocating for a nuanced understanding of morality that transcends traditional ethical frameworks.SUBSCRIBE TO ME ON X! https://x.com/StefanMolyneuxFollow me on Youtube! https://www.youtube.com/@freedomain1GET MY NEW BOOK 'PEACEFUL PARENTING', THE INTERACTIVE PEACEFUL PARENTING AI, AND THE FULL AUDIOBOOK!https://peacefulparenting.com/Join the PREMIUM philosophy community on the web for free!Subscribers get 12 HOURS on the "Truth About the French Revolution," multiple interactive multi-lingual philosophy AIs trained on thousands of hours of my material - as well as AIs for Real-Time Relationships, Bitcoin, Peaceful Parenting, and Call-In Shows!You also receive private livestreams, HUNDREDS of exclusive premium shows, early release podcasts, the 22 Part History of Philosophers series and much more!See you soon!https://freedomain.locals.com/support/promo/UPB2025

Tim Sandefur joins to discuss individualism in American culture. In this fun (but weird) conversation, we go through zombie shows, Westerns, and Star Trek, while invoking Hobbes, Ayn Rand, Epicurus, the Stoics, Plato and Aristotle. He is the author of the new book "You Don't Own Me: Individualism and the Culture of Liberty."   Past Sandefur chats:   ATA: The Last Policeman https://alienating.libsyn.com/the-last-policeman   ATA: Let's Fight About the Undiscovered Country https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lets-fight-about-the-undiscovered-country/id1488171922?i=1000485799630   ATA: Is Life Worth Living in a Perfect Utopia? https://alienating.libsyn.com/is-life-worth-living-in-a-perfect-utopia   ATA: Cold War Kirk vs. Picard the Moral Relativist https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cold-war-kirk-vs-picard-the-moral-relativist/id1488171922?i=1000456934729  

Objetivismo, Aborto, Moral Objetiva e Estado Mínimo Objectivism, Abortion, Objective Morality, and the Minimal State | Yaron Brook Interviewed 

Gen Z vs. Boomers; Post-Liberal & Nat Cons; Chemtrails | Yaron Brook Show

#Shutdown; ACA; Tariff – Dividend, SCOTUS; 50y Mortgages; Rent; Same Sex; BBC | Yaron Brook Show

Antisemitism -- What? Why? Who? | Yaron Brook Show

Mamdani, Tucker & Fuentes -- What is Going On? | Yaron Brook Show