[yojo]

In theory (and in a well functioning system), ambition in a populace leads to GDP growth as ambitious people seek ways to make more money by doing higher value work. This in turn leads to a higher standard of living, possibly for everyone if you redistribute some of the surplus via taxation schemes.

Personally (and more selfishly), I tried to raise my salary to be able to afford not working for extended periods of time.

[giantg2]

That makes sense. I'm wondering more about net benefit. Is it really a benefit if our GDP rose if we spend increasing amounts on stuff like healthcare and have shorter lives due to the constant grind of work? I'm not sure we can answer these questions, but I agree with you that as long as the ambition is properly placed and the system works well that it would be good.

[yojo]

It’s a fair question. There is evidence that working increases your life expectancy, at least among men[1], and under the regime of western societal norms.

Working with “ambition” could result in more stresses that counteract this gain. Hard to say.

Also possible that the gain would disappear outside of a culture that places so much value on jobs and wealth.

1: https://crr.bc.edu/briefs/do-men-who-work-longer-live-longer...