Rutger Bregman, a historian and bestselling author known for his optimistic views on human nature, discusses how history can guide us today. He shares insights on redefining productivity in a tech-driven world, highlighting the balance between ambition and ethical responsibility. The conversation critiques sensationalist news media, advocating for more balanced consumption through books and podcasts. Bregman urges a shift from seeking mere happiness to finding deeper satisfaction through meaningful work and collective action for societal change.
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Rutger's Early Life and Shift
Rutger Bregman was a relaxed, lazy teenager who chose history because it seemed easy.
He shifted from low ambition to finding a more meaningful definition of success during university.
insights INSIGHT
History Shows Change Is Possible
History reveals society's structure can radically change, inspired by historical precedents.
Radical utopian ideas become possible as social and cultural norms shift over decades.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Join Moral Ambition Circles
Find like-minded peers to redefine success; community keeps you accountable.
Join face-to-face Moral Ambition Circles to fuel your career impact and motivation.
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Getting Things Done (GTD) is a personal productivity system developed by David Allen. The book provides a detailed methodology for managing tasks, projects, and information, emphasizing the importance of capturing all tasks and ideas, clarifying their meaning, organizing them into actionable lists, reviewing the system regularly, and engaging in the tasks. The GTD method is designed to reduce stress and increase productivity by externalizing tasks and using a trusted system to manage them. The book is divided into three parts, covering the overview of the system, its implementation, and the deeper benefits of integrating GTD into one's work and life[2][3][5].
The decline of the West
Oswald Spengler
Are We Smart Enough to Know How Smart Animals Are?
Frans de Waal
In *Are We Smart Enough to Know How Smart Animals Are?*, Frans de Waal delves into the intelligence of various animal species, highlighting their problem-solving abilities, tool use, and social intelligence. He argues that the difference between human and animal cognition is one of degree, not kind, and emphasizes the need to appreciate animal intelligence on its own terms.
Utopia for Realists
The Case for a Universal Basic Income, Open Borders, and a 15-hour Workweek
Rutger Bregman
In *Utopia for Realists*, Rutger Bregman argues that visionary ideas, often considered utopian, can be implemented to create a more equitable and productive society. He advocates for a universal basic income, a shorter workweek of 15 hours, and open borders. Bregman supports these ideas with historical examples, such as Richard Nixon's proposed basic income and the successful Mincome project in Canada, as well as current data and academic studies. The book challenges conventional wisdom and encourages readers to dream big and strive for a better future[1][2][3].
Moral Ambition
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Rutger Bregman
Rutger Bregman's 'Moral Ambition' delves into the complexities of ambition and its potential for positive societal impact. The book challenges conventional notions of success and encourages readers to consider how their ambitions can contribute to a better world. Bregman argues that individuals can leverage their drive and determination to create meaningful change, focusing on ethical considerations and collective well-being. He explores various examples of individuals who have successfully channeled their ambition for the greater good, offering practical insights and inspiring narratives. The book ultimately promotes a vision of ambition that is both personally fulfilling and socially responsible.
Humankind
A Hopeful History
Rutger Bregman
Humankind: A Hopeful History challenges the idea that humans are inherently selfish by presenting evidence of our altruistic behavior throughout history. The book takes a multi-disciplinary approach, drawing from history, economics, psychology, biology, anthropology, and archaeology to argue that humans are more peaceful and friendly than commonly believed. Bregman sides with Jean-Jacques Rousseau's view of human nature in the state of nature debate, opposing Thomas Hobbes' more pessimistic outlook. He also discusses the concept of 'domestication syndrome' and how humans may have self-domesticated, leading to a more cooperative and empathetic species.
Enjoy David's wide-ranging conversation with historian and bestselling author Rutger Bregman. You'll find that Rutger is both optimistic and realistic, with a deep understanding of how the past can teach us about the present.
Ruger's books include: Moral Ambition: How To Stop Wasting Your Talent and Start Making a DifferenceHumankind: A Hopeful HistoryUtopia for Realists: And How We Can Get There
You can find more information about Rutger's books on his website.
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