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