The Rational Egoist: The Myth of Mental Illness and the Therapeutic State with Jeffrey Schaler

The Rational Egoist: The Myth of Mental Illness and the Therapeutic State with Jeffrey Schaler In this episode of The Rational Egoist, host Michael Liebowitz interviews Jeffrey Schaler, author of "Szasz Under Fire," to discuss Thomas Szasz's psychology and his belief that mental illness is a myth. They delve into the concept of involuntary psychiatry and the notion that no one should be forced into treatment. They explore the idea that mental health is an existential problem of living and that individuals must be free to make their own decisions.Schaler argues that even with mental illness, people still have the free will to make good decisions. He challenges the notion that just because someone hears a voice telling them to do something, it means they must do it. Schaler also questions the validity of mental illnesses, such as schizophrenia or anxiety, as physical malfunctions since the mind cannot be identified through an autopsy.The conversation also touches on the idea of gender being a subjective experience of being male or female, while sex is the biological component. They discuss how branding someone as mentally ill due to identifying as a different gender takes away their freedom of speech and uses psychology as law.The episode concludes with a discussion on addiction and the belief that it is not a disease, but rather a volitional behavior that people can control. Liebowitz and Schaler argue that psychology has become an extension of the law, and that psychologists cannot know with certainty who may harm themselves or others. They challenge the idea that statistics are used in courts to remove responsibility and plead insanity, and emphasize the importance of individual freedom and responsibility in mental health treatment. Michael Liebowitz is a philosopher, political activist, and host of the Rational Egoist podcast. He is a passionate advocate of reason and his views have been heavily influenced by the philosopher Ayn Rand. Liebowitz has dedicated his life to promoting its principles of rational self-interest, individualism, and reason. In addition to his work as a podcast host, Liebowitz is also a prominent spokesperson for the Libertarian Party for Connecticut - USA and has been involved in a number of political debates advocating for individual rights and freedoms through his YouTube videos and interviews. Liebowitz's life story is a testament to the transformative power of the writings of Ayn Rand. After spending 25 years in prison, he was able to turn his life around by embracing the principles of rational self-interest and morality espoused by Ayn Rand. He has since become an influential voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities, using his own experience to inspire others to live their lives in accordance with reason, individualism, and self-interest. Liebowitz is also the co-author of "Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime," a book that explores the ways in which misguided societal attitudes towards punishment and rehabilitation have led to a rise in crime and recidivism. In addition to his work in politics and philosophy, Liebowitz is a regular guest on the Todd Feinburg show at WTIC, where he provides expert commentary on a range of political and social issues.