Igniting Moral Ambition: the Path to a Better World

In news cycles filled with cynicism and disillusionment, we might become convinced that humans were always heading towards all our modern problems, and that we only have ourselves to blame. Then in 2020, Humankind by Rutger Bregman showed us a more hopeful history based on the inherent goodness of people. Challenging many common held beliefs, this positive message spread across the world.

So we are good, now what?

It is exactly this question that Rutger Bregman set out to answer in his new book, Moral Ambition. He once again challenges us to rethink the status quo. This time, he delves into the moral compass that guides our actions and how a collective shift towards ambitious morality can shape a better future for all.

Rutger Bregman’s Moral Ambition

At its core, Moral Ambition explores the concept of ambition and success through a moral lens. Bregman argues that the key to a better world lies in more than just technological or economic advancements. It also depends on the moral choices we make every day about how to use them. He posits that if we aim higher in our ethical standards, we can address many pressing issues more effectively. By striving to be better versions of ourselves, we improve our impact on the world.

With these new definitions of success we can finally use our talent to really make a difference. “Follow your passion” has become very popular advice in recent years, but we must go where we can make the greatest difference so we “no longer point fingers and say “someone should…”, no, you’re going to do it yourself” – Bregman.

“Our talent is a tool, and our ambition is raw energy”

According to Bregman, we have to be idealistic in our principles, but pragmatic in our methods. Having strong beliefs and speaking out about them is a great start, but are you relentless in creating lasting change where you can?

Creating Change

If you are reading this, you are probably based in a rich country. You are accessing this article on your stable wifi or data network, and reading this on your mobile phone or laptop, while sitting in your favorite chair or while in public transport. The fact that you have this option might not feel like much, but in reality it means you are one of the richest people on earth. You are in a way more powerful position than you might’ve thought, and can really make an impact. 

Rutger Bregman’s approach to moral ambition is radical, yes, but very accessible. Through historical examples, psychological research, and modern case studies, he clearly illustrates how this is a future with a place for us all. Whether you excel in researching, fundraising, or executing a strategy, these good initiatives need you. As he elaborately describes, there are organizations out there that tell us exactly what, and where help is needed to be as effective as possible in our ambitious altruism. All you need to do is take that first step.

“Effective idealists are radical in in their goals, but goal oriented in their execution”

What exactly is the recipe for success then? Bregman identifies four key ingredients to moral ambition:

1. The idealism of an activist
2. The ambition of a startup founder
3. The critical reasoning of a scientist
4. The humility of a monk

Blend these together, and you see the outline of a project that can save many lives. We at BrightVibes see ourselves in these characteristics, and we’re convinced that our dedicated audience and beyond can be an important part of this movement. 

The School for Moral Ambition

To further cultivate this culture, Bregman founded The School for Moral Ambition. This foundation helps people take the first step toward a job with a positive impact. Through “Circles,” individuals gather in small groups. They learn to increase their impact by sharing knowledge and using the provided materials and tools. Don’t know what problem to solve? Bregman and the foundation urge everyone to focus on problems that fall under the following criteria: they must be overlooked, overarching, and solvable. This leads to us finding practical “gaps in the market” where we can put our talents to use. If you are interested, please find more information at https://www.moreleambitie.nl/. 

Due to this shared belief, we are delighted to announce that we interviewed Rutger Bregman to develop a deeper understanding of this concept. Through our collaboration, a vision of a better, more hopeful, future emerged. We have also committed ourselves to sharing this message with the morally ambitious, conveying our strong support for actionable good through our videos.

At BrightVibes, we believe in authentic storytelling, and Moral Ambition has a strong one to tell. It’s clear that people want to listen, as evidenced by the national storm shaking up with The School for Moral Ambition and the bestselling status of the work. We are happy that Rutger Bregman trusts BrightVibes to achieve the same success internationally, to inspire change worldwide. After all, we can only do it together.

There’s value in looking out for each other.

Why should we care?

Because we all do better when we all do better.

Photo credits: Pasi Salminen – Nordic Business Forum