Derek Wilson

Derek Thompson is an American journalist and podcaster, recognized for his contributions to The Atlantic and his bestselling books. Born in McLean, Virginia, he developed an early interest in theater before pursuing journalism, political science, and legal studies at Northwestern University. Thompson joined The Atlantic in 2009, where he has since become a prominent voice, writing extensively on technology, culture, and societal shifts.

His journalistic work includes widely discussed cover stories such as "A World Without Work," which examines automation's impact on labor, and "The Anti-Social Century," exploring the rise of solitude and its cultural consequences. Thompson also hosts podcasts like "Plain English" and "Crazy/Genius." He has authored the bestseller "Hit Makers: How to Succeed in an Age of Distraction" and co-authored "Abundance" with Ezra Klein, which analyzes artificial scarcities in essential areas of life. In 2025, he transitioned to independent writing on Substack while maintaining a contributing role at The Atlantic.

Derek Thompson's career at The Atlantic has seen him tackle significant contemporary issues. His essay "A World Without Work" garnered widespread attention for its exploration of automation's potential to disrupt the labor market and redefine the concept of work itself. Another notable piece, "The Anti-Social Century," delves into the increasing prevalence of solitude in American life, positing that this trend is fundamentally altering individual personalities, political landscapes, and broader cultural dynamics. He highlights a societal inclination towards solitude, even when it does not lead to greater happiness. Thompson's work often synthesizes complex social phenomena into accessible narratives, making him a key commentator on modern American life.

Beyond his extensive journalism, Derek Thompson has authored influential books that dissect key aspects of contemporary society. His 2017 book, "Hit Makers: How to Succeed in an Age of Distraction," achieved national bestseller status and explored the science behind popularity and success in a world saturated with distractions. This work received the American Marketing Association's Leonard L. Berry Marketing Book Award. In "Abundance," co-authored with Ezra Klein, Thompson examines what he terms "artificial, policy-driven scarcities" in crucial domains such as housing, energy, healthcare, and innovation, arguing that these shortages are often a result of deliberate policy choices rather than inherent limitations.