Worklife with Adam Grant WorkLife: How you can do more for others with Rutger Bregman
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Aug 26, 2025 
Rutger Bregman, a Dutch historian and author of 'Moral Ambition', discusses how to align idealism with entrepreneurship for social good. He emphasizes the importance of moral ambition to redefine success beyond wealth and suggests practical ways for individuals to contribute to societal change. The conversation covers fostering moral ambition in children, the importance of personal growth in effective altruism, and balancing ambition with compassion for impactful social change. Bregman also highlights the significance of community action in driving meaningful change.
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Combine Ambition With Idealism
- Moral ambition pairs activist idealism with entrepreneurial drive to create major social change.
- Use your privilege, resources, and networks to make a disproportionate difference.
Elites Can Spark Moral Revolutions
- Britain’s abolition success came from entrepreneurial elites who used their capital and networks for change.
- Moral progress often arises when privileged people redefine success toward public good.
Build Career Capital First
- Invest early career years in building skills, networks, and career capital for later impact.
- Choose roles that prepare you to do the most good in decades, not just immediate moral satisfaction.
