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The Myth of Greatness and Ethics in Business with author and writer Avram Alpert
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What if our obsession with being the best is actually holding us back? In this inaugural episode of Poets & Thinkers, we explore the myth of greatness with Avram Alpert. He is a writer and teaches at Princeton University.
Avi challenges the idea that only the “best” deserve success. He proposes an alternative: “Embracing a ‘good-enough’ approach.” – with a focus on fostering sustainability, fulfillment, and a more equitable society.
Avram takes us on a journey through the themes of his book, “The Good-Enough Life”. He unpacks how values influence business, politics, and human connection. We discuss real-world examples of how collaboration, rather than competition, drives meaningful progress. Avram shares how and how leaders can reshape systems to prioritize collective well-being over individual accolades.
In this candid and eye-opening conversation, we explore:
- Why the pursuit of “greatness” can be a trap
- How ethical constraints clash with business ambitions
- What history teaches us about cooperation vs. competition
- The surprising power of “good enough” leadership for a better future
This episode is an invitation to shift your perspective on success, challenge the status quo, and imagine a world where everyone gets a seat at the table.
Topics
01:00 - Introduction to Avram Alpert and his work
04:30 - The intersection of values and business
07:00 - Role of systemic constraints in ethical decision-making
12:00 - The paradox of societal progress vs. individual well-being
18:00 - Defining greatness vs. “good-enough”
22:00 - The “good-enough parent” and its implications for society
27:00 - How history shows us the power of collaboration
36:00 - The paradox of human nature: individualism vs. collectivism
42:00 - What qualities do we need in future leaders?
46:00 - The case for a “good-enough” future
Resources Mentioned
The Good-Enough Life by Avram Alpert
The Theory of Moral Sentiments by Adam Smith
Connect with Avram:
Get in touch: [email protected]
Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poetsandthinkerspodcast/
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