Rutger Bregman, a Dutch historian and bestselling author, delves into the deeper meaning of work and success. He challenges the value of prestigious careers that may offer little societal benefit. Bregman highlights the significance of moral ambition and how true impactful work often defies societal norms. Through historical examples, he illustrates how individual actions can lead to massive change, emphasizing that what truly matters is contributing to the greater good, not just climbing the corporate ladder.
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insights INSIGHT
Prestige Doesn't Equal Importance
Prestigious jobs can be superfluous and easily replaceable despite seeming important.
Essential workers hold society together, but often lack recognition or prestige.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Consultant Turns Charity Founder
Rob Mather was a successful consultant who shifted focus to high-impact charity.
He founded Against Malaria Foundation, arguably the most effective global health charity.
insights INSIGHT
High Pay Can Reflect Job Misery
Some high-paid jobs are well paid because they are miserable and soul-crushing, not valuable.
Society pays a premium for people to endure unpleasant work, not necessarily for importance.
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Christopher Leslie Brown's *Moral Capital* explores the emergence of the British abolitionist movement by examining the impact of the American Revolution and changing views of empire and nation. The book highlights how abolitionism became a moral cause that benefited both the abolitionists and the enslaved, challenging traditional narratives of humanitarianism and economic determinism.
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].
The 48 laws of power
Robert Greene
In 'The 48 Laws of Power', Robert Greene and Joost Elffers synthesize three thousand years of the history of power into 48 laws. These laws are derived from the philosophies of Machiavelli, Sun Tzu, and Carl Von Clausewitz, as well as the lives of influential figures such as Henry Kissinger and P.T. Barnum. The book provides tactics, concepts, and lessons on how to achieve and maintain power, emphasizing prudence, confidence, and self-preservation. Each law is illustrated with historical examples and is designed to help readers understand and navigate the dynamics of power in various aspects of life, including work, social hierarchies, and politics.
Bury the chains
Adam Hochschild
Bury the Chains chronicles the late 18th- and early 19th-century anti-slavery movement in the British Empire, highlighting key figures like Thomas Clarkson and William Wilberforce. The book explores the campaign's tactics and setbacks, ultimately leading to the abolition of slavery in 1838. It also draws parallels with modern social justice movements, showcasing the pioneering methods used by the abolitionists.
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.
You could be doing anything with your life…so why are you choosing this? Historian and bestselling author Rutger Bregman joins Ryan to question everything we tend to believe about success, work, and impact. They discuss why many “prestigious” careers might actually be pointless, how a few regular people pulled off one of the biggest moral wins in history, and why meaningful work rarely looks like what society celebrates.
In 2024, Rutger co-founded The School for Moral Ambition, a non-profit organization inspired by his latest book, Moral Ambition. The initiative helps people to take the step toward an impactful career.
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