Moral Ambition

“Rutger Bregman’s latest work isn’t merely a book; it’s a call to action for humanity to re-evaluate our paradigms of success and impact in the world. It serves as a stark wake-up call, urging us to truly utilize our talents to create the future we all wish to live in.”

“This book is the wakeup call that our world sorely needs. With his signature clarity and conviction, Rutger Bregman boldly and brilliantly challenges us to hold ourselves to higher standards—and do more for others. Moral Ambition is the rare read that might actually help you become a better person.”

"Rutger Bregman challenges the reader to use their lives to improve the world. A bracing but ultimately uplifting wake-up call for a culture increasingly drowning in distraction and consumption!"

“Fresh, lucid, and persuasive, Moral Ambition gives us hope, humor, and guidance at a time when all are in short supply. Bregman’s version of our century is ever so much better than the one around us, and so we should all read, consider, and act.”

“‘Find something worth doing’ seems like sage advice for us all—and on this beleaguered planet, as this book makes clear, that means digging into the very biggest problems.”

"Moral Ambition offers a refreshing antidote to both cynical fatalism and naive idealism. If you’re willing to trade a life of comfort for a life of meaning, Rutger Bregman is your guide and this book is your map.”

"This is one of very few books in my life that has changed how I view the world (and my world, too!). It is a true bible of realistic idealism. It takes awareness of 'getting things done' to a new level, with a dynamic invitation to up each of our games. This is a must read."

“We have come to accept so many things as normal—skyrocketing inequalities, gargantuan firms ruling our lives, virtue signaling on social media instead of democratic participation, all of us just worrying about our image while the world is on fire. We need to dream of and articulate to each other an alternative vision for a society in which we have control over our lives and can still speak truth to power via the democratic process and free media. I hope this readable, audacious book calling for greater moral ambition can be a first step.”

"A fierce and brilliant call to arms for anyone who has been wondering whether there's more to life. (There is.) Bregman wants to change you, and he just might succeed. This is a wonderfully dangerous book."

"Moral Ambition is a beautiful and courageous book about one of the most important questions each of us will face: what will we do with our one life?  Rutger Bregman calls for a seismic norm shift in how those of us with the privilege to consider our career choices think about where we put our greatest resources—our time and energy."

“There are many things to admire about this book. Just one of them is the way Rutger Bregman’s inspiring array of dedicated people who changed the world around them spans continents and centuries. Meeting them all, some of whom I had not known before, gave me hope—at a moment when we need that.”

“In Moral Ambition, Rutger Bregman challenges us to rethink what we want to do with our lives. This practical and inspiring book is the best antidote to the pessimists and cynics who make you believe that nothing can be done about the problems we face today. Bregman helps you to expand your ethical ambitions and discover how you can contribute to a better world. Moral Ambition is the practical handbook for anyone ready to dedicate their life to making real change. Imagine what we could achieve together if everyone read Rutger’s book!”

"A new look at how to make the world a better place, guided by reason, balance, and engaging case studies. Bregman avoids easy moralizing and lazy conventional wisdom to offer a fresh and practical guide to idealism."

“A life-changing book. It will lead you to re-evaluate your life—and radically raise your game. As soon as you finish it, you will want to buy it for everyone you love.”

"The key to solving our biggest problems isn’t just awareness, political will, or money—it’s ambitious individuals willing to dedicate their time and skills to improving the world. This book will inspire you to become one of them."

“Not for the faint-hearted. But an essential guide for those who are determined to make a difference. Packed with powerful insights, inspiring stories, and data to back it up, Bregman challenges us to think and act bigger. Read it, then go out and change the world.”

"Moral Ambition by Rutger Bregman is a thought-provoking exploration of humanity's potential for good. I appreciate the book's compelling use of tools, charts, data, historical examples and statistics to break down complex ideas and challenge conventional thinking of action and making a difference. Bregman’s research-backed insights offer a refreshing perspective on prioritizing, taking action ethically, making this book a must-read for the young activists curious about building a better, more compassionate future. Personally, I have heard Bregman's inspiring talk and this book is an additional reminder for me that empathy and collaboration are at the heart of innovation."

“A terrific read. There are so many things in here that made me think, 'Yes, exactly!' With Moral Ambition, Rutger Bregman has pulled off something remarkable: a lively and entertaining read that is full of important wisdom about some of life's most important questions.  I hope everyone who wants to make the world a better place will read it. Even if all they take away is the lessons of the chapter on seeing winning as our moral duty, that would already greatly improve their prospects of doing good.”

"Do you want to read a book about the most important decisions of your life? Rutger Bregman has produced that book and you should read it."

“Clear, brave, important and provocative. Forcing us to reassess and defend the most fundamental moral principles and purposes of our lives.”

"'Rutger Bregman, reliable and articulate voice of pragmatic solidarity, is back with a book offering guidance for well-intended do-gooders like me. His advice on how to build movements with achievable goals and see them through to tangible success is heartening and has given me much energy and wisdom for the years ahead."

“Another barnstorming, transformative book by one of the greatest thinkers of the 21st century. It is uplifting, inspiring, informative and entertaining in equal measure. I defy you to read it and not be motivated to act.”

“Do you want to use your talents and ideals to make a meaningful difference? Here is an inspiring and powerful call to action: why pursuing an altruistic career is not only vital for our shared future but can also bring you deeper personal fulfillment and happiness.”

"Moral Ambition is exactly the kind of book we need right now. Rutger Bregman challenges us to rethink success—not as wealth or status, but as impact and contribution. If you’ve ever felt like your talents could be put to better use, this book is your wake-up call. Read it, reflect on it, and most importantly—act on it."