History

I noticed this poem in a book of poetry by Lizzie Magie, published in 1892. It captures the beauty in selfishness when your happiness is derived from helping others. All, all are selfish. There is not one who does not live himself to please. Life holds for each no other aim or object Than to gratify and satisfy his own ambitions and desires. We call those generous who deny themselves To give to others, But by those same denials They are taking greater pleasures than they give, For no one does or can give to another More happiness than he himself receives. Those are just who claim for others The rights they for themselves exact. Those are generous who would make for others The opportunities they wish themselves. The happiest are those who are to others kindest, And who cause most happiness to all. The great are those who make the world The better by their deeds. ...

In this excellent discussion between Axel Leijonhufvud from UCLA and Friedrich Von Hayek from 1978, we learn about Hayek’s experience at university, moving to America, his social circles, economics and perspectives through his life.

It’s common knowledge that Milton Friedman was able to be interviewed by Phil Donahue, not once, but twice! It’s lesser well-known that Walter Williams was also interviewed by Donahue. Here is the full Donahue episode with Walter Williams from the mid 80s.

Thomas Sowell comments on political leaders.

Christopher Hitchens on Firing Line in 1984 discussing the women’s rights movements.