Making Sense with Sam Harris #412 — Better Things & Better People
217 snips
May 2, 2025 
Rutger Bregman, historian and author known for his groundbreaking ideas on universal basic income and societal change, joins for a thought-provoking discussion. They tackle wealth inequality and the urgent need for moral leadership in turbulent times. Bregman argues that altruism should be better rewarded and critiques the effectiveness of billionaire philanthropy. He also explores the concept of moral ambition and the potential for a modern countercultural movement that addresses today’s existential risks and societal challenges.
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The Dual Reality of Progress
- We've made significant progress historically in reducing poverty and child mortality.
- Yet, current events reveal the world can change rapidly, both for better and worse.
History's Climax Moment
- Human history's biggest changes show a sudden sharp growth since the Industrial Revolution.
- We now witness a climax moment with uncertain outcomes, from catastrophe to utopia.
Abolitionists' Elite Revolt
- The late 18th century British abolitionists revolted against the prevailing elite immorality.
- Similar elite countercultural movements have historically driven significant social progress.
