Downstream: How to Be a Morally Effective Person w/ Rutger Bregman

In this book, Eitan Hersh argues that many people treat politics as a spectator sport, which he terms 'political hobbyism. ' Instead of merely consuming political news or posting on social media, Hersh advocates for building political organizations, implementing long-term visions for local communities, and getting to know neighbors to accumulate power and make real change. The book is supported by cutting-edge social science and stories of ordinary citizens who have taken political power seriously, highlighting the importance of local, face-to-face networks and providing community services to rebuild political power at the grassroots level.

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.

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.

In this book, Musa al-Gharbi argues that despite the rise of a new elite who identify as allies of progressive causes such as antiracism, feminism, and LGBTQ rights, social and economic inequalities have continued to grow. These symbolic capitalists, who work primarily with words, ideas, images, and data, genuinely believe in egalitarian principles but inadvertently contribute to and perpetuate the very inequalities they oppose. The book examines how their actions and narratives often provoke backlash against the social justice causes they champion and argues that challenging these self-serving narratives is crucial for addressing social and economic inequality effectively.

In 'Zero to One,' Peter Thiel argues that true innovation comes from creating something entirely new, going from 'zero to one,' rather than incrementally improving existing ideas. He emphasizes the importance of vertical progress through technology and the benefits of monopoly in driving innovation. Thiel also discusses the need for long-term planning, the importance of finding the right co-founders, and the power law in startup success. The book challenges conventional wisdom and encourages readers to think critically and aim big to build the future.