Luke Burgis

Luke Burgis, an American entrepreneur and thought leader, has carved a unique niche at the intersection of business innovation and philosophical inquiry. His formative years were marked by an intensive study of business at New York University's prestigious Stern School of Business, followed by an exploration of philosophy and theology at a pontifical university in the heart of Rome. These diverse academic pursuits have profoundly influenced his career, shaping his approach to entrepreneurship and education. Residing in Washington, D.C., with his wife, Claire, Burgis continues to inspire as the Entrepreneur-in-Residence and Director of Programs at the Ciocca Center for Principled Entrepreneurship, where he imparts his extensive knowledge to students at The Catholic University of America. His acclaimed book, "Wanting: The Power of Mimetic Desire in Everyday Life," delves into the intricate dynamics of human desire and its pervasive influence on personal and societal behavior. Through this work, Burgis illuminates the concept of mimetic desire, drawing from philosophy, psychology, and his own entrepreneurial experiences to offer readers a profound understanding of how desires shape actions and decisions. The book has garnered significant attention for its insightful exploration of human behavior, establishing Burgis as a leading voice in the discourse on desire and motivation. Burgis's writing is characterized by a compelling blend of scholarly depth and practical application, seamlessly weaving together complex theories and real-world examples. His prose is articulate and thought-provoking, encouraging readers to scrutinize the underlying forces that drive human behavior. As the Managing Partner of Fourth Wall Ventures, an incubator he founded, Burgis continues to advance his vision of fostering a healthy human ecology through education and entrepreneurship. His contributions extend beyond literature, as he actively participates in shaping the future of education through his involvement with innovative K-12 initiatives, thus reinforcing his commitment to nurturing the next generation of thinkers and leaders.