A Great Talk with James Valliant Concerning the Recently Discovered Letters Wherein Murray Rothbard Discussed Ayn Rand
In this episode of The Rational Egoist, host Michael Liebowitz sits down with James Valliant, author of The Passion of Ayn Rand’s Critics and co-author of Creating Christ, to discuss a fascinating historical discovery — the recently unearthed letters in which Murray Rothbard writes about Ayn Rand and her philosophy.
Together they explore the complex and often contentious relationship between Rand and Rothbard, two towering figures in the libertarian and Objectivist movements. What did Rothbard really think of Rand? How did their intellectual split shape the future of the liberty movement? And what do these letters reveal about the philosophical divide between individualism and anarcho-capitalism?
This is an illuminating conversation for anyone interested in the history of ideas, the moral foundations of freedom, and the enduring tension between Objectivism and libertarianism.
🎧 Tune in for a deep dive into the minds that helped shape the modern liberty movement.
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
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