by Rutger Bregman
Moral Ambition (originally Morele Ambitie in Dutch) is one of those books that will most likely be picked up by people who already have a deep desire to make a real change in the world. For some of them it might even be the final nudge that says, “Come on, we know you want to do this, take the leap!” It’s influencing at its finest, and for one of the most admirable causes – changing the world.
As an avid reader of books published by De Correspondent and as a fan of Rutger Bregman’s work, I was eager to dive into Moral Ambition. Having read Humankind and Utopia for Realists with excitement, I knew I was in for something inspiring. In a world that can often feel bleak, Bregman offers a refreshing, alternative narrative—one of hope and the potential to do real good. His writing speaks to me as an idealist and helps me rethink my own life goals and the impact I want to have.
Moral Ambition, available in English in 2025, offers a soft landing into the purpose of doing good. Bregman explains not only the importance and value of having a moral ambition but also makes it feel achievable, providing practical advice on how to get started. Throughout the book, he highlights numerous cases of ordinary people who succeeded in changing the world, reminding us that we can do the same.
The message that resonates most with me is the idea that it’s not superheroes who change the world, but regular people doing extraordinary things—which, in turn, makes them superheroes. This book is an absolute must-read for anyone wanting to channel their skills into a more idealistic cause and who needs that final push to get started. It’s also for those who may not yet realize their own potential but are curious about the good they could achieve.
When talking about the book, I got the – valid – remark that ‘not everyone can or wants to be a world-changing idealist’, to which I responded that they don’t need to be. It is a book targeted at the masses, needing to reach only a few that will put his words into practice, just a few. And those few will be able to change the world and make it a better place for everyone.
What is Moral Ambition about?
In Moral Ambition, Rutger Bregman explores the concept of doing good and making a difference in the world, breaking down what it means to have moral ambition. Bregman makes the case that we all have the potential to create positive change, no matter our background or skill set. The book is filled with examples of people who have taken bold steps to better society and reminds readers that doing good is both admirable and feasible.
Bregman’s writing is encouraging and motivating, offering practical insights into how we can start making a difference, whether on a large scale or in small, meaningful ways. His message is clear: you don’t need to be a superhero to change the world. You just need the ambition and willingness to act.
Book Cover
