Ben Rattray Quotes

Powerful Ben Rattray for Daily Growth

About Ben Rattray

Ben Rattray (1981- ) is an American entrepreneur, activist, and author, renowned for his groundbreaking work in digital activism and social change. Born on May 17, 1981, in New York City, he grew up with a strong appreciation for technology, politics, and social justice. Rattray attended Wesleyan University where he majored in Government and Economics, graduating cum laude in 2003. Post-graduation, Rattray's career trajectory was marked by an unyielding commitment to harness technology for social good. In 2008, he founded Change.org, a platform that empowers individuals to start and sign petitions on various issues. Over the years, Change.org has grown into the world's largest petition platform, catalyzing campaigns around diverse topics such as climate change, racial justice, LGBTQ rights, and more. In 2013, Rattray published "Civic: A Citizen's Guide to Becoming an Activist in the Digital Age." The book provides practical advice on how individuals can use technology to drive positive social change, drawing from his experiences with Change.org. Rattray's work has been recognized with numerous awards, including being named one of Forbes' "30 Under 30" in Technology and a World Economic Forum Young Global Leader. In addition to his work at Change.org, Rattray is also the founder of Upworthy, a social news platform that aims to spread social good content virally. Through these ventures, Ben Rattray continues to push the boundaries of digital activism, inspiring individuals worldwide to engage in activism and create a more just and equitable society.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Change begins when the unheard make themselves heard."

This quote suggests that meaningful change occurs when those who have traditionally been marginalized or silenced in society find their voice and express their perspectives, needs, and demands. It emphasizes the importance of listening to and empowering the underrepresented as a crucial step towards instigating positive change.


"The world is not a gallery for spectators, it's a studio for creators."

This quote emphasizes that life is not merely about observing or passively participating, but rather actively engaging and creating. It encourages individuals to view the world as a canvas where one can create change, innovate, and contribute meaningfully instead of just passively consuming or observing what others have created. The world is not meant for onlookers; it's designed for those who are willing to take action, make a difference, and shape their own destiny through creativity and determination.


"If you're not at the table, you're probably on the menu."

This quote emphasizes the importance of participation and inclusion in decision-making processes. It suggests that if one is excluded or not present where critical decisions are being made (the "table"), they may find themselves negatively affected by those decisions ("on the menu"). Essentially, it's a call to action for people to engage, participate, and ensure their voice is heard in shaping their own destiny.


"We can't just talk about change. We have to be the change."

This quote emphasizes that mere discussions or conversations about change are not enough; individuals must actively participate in bringing about that change. It underscores the importance of personal action, commitment, and responsibility towards creating a better world. The message encourages everyone to be proactive in making positive differences instead of just talking about them.


"The power of many is greater than the power of few."

The quote emphasizes that collective action by a larger group can surpass the influence or power held by a smaller, more selective one. This underscores the importance of unity, collaboration, and inclusivity in achieving significant change. It encourages us to recognize our individual strengths when we combine them with others, potentially overcoming even the most powerful obstacles or adversities.


There are a lot of complaints by the older generation about the lack of action in this generation. My retort: give these people something to be engaged in. Cutting a check is not engaging.

- Ben Rattray

Generation, Give, Engaged, Engaging

In college, I was always disappointed by lectures that covered social problems but failed to identify what I could do to change them. Part of the problem was that many professors simply didn't believe they had a role in converting awareness to action.

- Ben Rattray

College, Role, Converting, Lectures

Some charities treat donors like cash machines. Until now there hasn't been any effective way for them to provide a more personal or interactive giving experience.

- Ben Rattray

Treat, Some, Effective Way, Machines

Social networking technology didn't really exist until 2004-2005. I had the idea to use this technology to bridge this gap between a general interest in addressing social issues and the practical action.

- Ben Rattray

Idea, Practical, Addressing, Social Issues

I was always interested in social change but never actually did anything about it.

- Ben Rattray

Never, Always, Actually, Social Change

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