Ambition For What [Audiobook]

To do this, she first explores three central focuses of ambition - recognition, power, and money - and argues that an excessive preoccupation with these external markers for success can be self-defeating for individuals and toxic for society. She then shifts to discussing the obstacles to constructive ambition and the consequences when ambitions are skewed or blocked by inequality and identity-related characteristics such as gender, race, class, and national origin. Rhode further addresses the ways that families, schools, and colleges might play a more effective role in developing positive ambition. Finally, she examines what sorts of ambitions contribute to sustained wellbeing, such as building relationships and contributing to society, rather than chasing extrinsic rewards such as wealth, power, and fame.