By Tibor Dessewffy, Director of the Digital Sociology Research Center at Eotvos Lorand University in Budapest and a council member of the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR).
Ever felt like the world desperately needs change, but don’t know how to start? The Art of Insubordination by Todd B. Kashdan offers a roadmap for transforming frustration into effective rebellion. Far from promoting reckless defiance, Kashdan champions principled insubordination—thoughtful, strategic dissent that aims to improve society rather than disrupt it for its own sake. Whether you're a corporate rebel, a social activist, or simply a frustrated individual seeking better ways to create change, this book provides the tools and mindset needed to dissent effectively.
Rebellion with a Purpose
Kashdan makes a clear distinction between impulsive rebellion and principled insubordination, built on three pillars: authenticity, contribution, and social responsibility. Authentic dissent is driven by a deeply held conviction to contribute positively to society, and is pursued in a way that minimizes harm while maximizing impact. His argument is that dissenters, or as he prefers to call them, insubordinates, are necessary for progress. Societal change often begins with someone willing to question the status quo, and Kashdan provides a blueprint for how to do this in a way that balances these key values. He writes, “Principled insubordination is a brand of deviance intended to improve society with a minimal amount of secondary harm”.
A Practical Approach to Dissent
Divided into three sections, The Art of Insubordination first lays out why dissent is essential for progress, using historical figures like Charles Darwin to illustrate how calculated rebellion can reshape society. The second section, The Non-Conformist's Cookbook, provides step-by-step guidance on how to build mental resilience, persuade sceptics, and gather allies when pushing back against the status quo. Kashdan helps would-be dissenters overcome their fear of rejection, arming them with strategies to deal with social resistance. “It’s f***ing hard to be different, to dissent, to deviate from traditional thinking,” he acknowledges, but this difficulty is what makes rebellion so valuable (p. 72).
Science-Based Insights
Kashdan leans heavily on social psychology to back up his insights. He explores the system justification theory, which explains why people defend the status quo even when it harms them. This bias toward the familiar, he argues, makes the work of dissenters all the more challenging—and necessary. He writes that people "blindly assume that the prevailing system is better" simply because it is entrenched (p. 60). Kashdan’s mix of science and practical advice allows readers to grasp not only the necessity of dissent but also how to make it palatable for those resistant to change.
The Art of Persuasion
One of the book’s most valuable sections focuses on persuasion. Kashdan teaches that dissenters must communicate in ways that resonate with their audience by tapping into shared values and emotions. He shares the example of Darwin, who knew that his evolutionary theory would shock society, so he waited 15 years to publish until the world was more ready. As Kashdan explains, timing and tone are crucial when pushing radical ideas, making rebellion more likely to be accepted rather than dismissed.
Why This Book Matters
The Art of Insubordination could not be more timely in today’s runaway world, where many people feel stifled by outdated norms but are unsure how to enact meaningful change. This book is for activists, entrepreneurs, and creatives alike—anyone who believes that society can be better but isn’t sure how to navigate the challenges of pushing for progress. Kashdan’s focus on responsible rebellion sets the book apart from more chaotic or cynical approaches to dissent. He doesn’t just want you to break the rules; he wants you to do it in a way that fosters real, positive outcomes.
Final Thoughts
Kashdan’s The Art of Insubordination is a must-read for anyone who feels constrained by the status quo but lacks a clear path forward. This book offers a refreshing take on rebellion by mixing humour, historical analysis, and psychological research with practical advice. As Kashdan says, “Principled insubordination is vital for improving society. It’s also part of what makes life richer, fun, and fulfilling" (p. 18). If you want to make a difference without burning bridges or losing your sanity, this book provides the perfect guide for crafting thoughtful, strategic dissent