57sec snip

Freakonomics Radio cover image

605. What Do People Do All Day?

Freakonomics Radio

NOTE

Ambition Flourishes in the Famine of Enough

Scarcity transcends basic needs, evolving into a societal force that shapes ambitions through aspiration, jealousy, and desire. Unlike subsistence farmers driven by absolute need, urban individuals face a relative scarcity that fuels a relentless pursuit of success and social status. This form of scarcity motivates longer work hours and fosters competitiveness, as people strive to 'keep up with the Joneses.' The underlying drivers compelling modern labor are often overlooked; many assume the primary motivation is financial gain, while the intricate interplay of social comparison and aspirational living plays a critical role in how individuals navigate their ambitions.

00:00

Get the Snipd
podcast app

Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
App store bannerPlay store banner

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode

Save any
moment

Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways

Share
& Export

Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode