Clay Routledge is an existential psychologist and the Director of the Human Flourishing Lab at the Archbridge Institute. His work explores how meaning, purpose, and psychological agency shape human behavior, motivation, and well-being. A former academic turned public thinker, Clay has authored numerous scholarly papers and popular articles, and his research bridges the gap between science and society by making behavioral insights accessible for real-world impact. His recent work focuses on the psychology of progress, the power of nostalgia, and cultivating hope in an age of uncertainty.

Dall-E is a GenAI tool from OpenAI.

Clay Routledge envisions a future where everyone has the freedom and opportunity to reach their full potential. Progress isn’t just about better institutions—protecting human rights, free speech, and opportunity—but also about cultivating meaning, agency, and connection.

Even in wealthy societies, many feel disconnected and pessimistic. To truly flourish, we need more than solutions to global challenges—we need a mindset that embraces curiosity, resilience, and purpose.