In his book "Seeing Further: The Story of Science and the Royal Society," author Bill Bryson explores the nature of human desire and ambition. He suggests that people often strive for an unrealistic breadth of achievement and satisfaction, leading to dissatisfaction and frustration. This pursuit of 'everything' can create a cycle of unending desire, where individuals are never fully content with what they have.

By examining this tendency, Bryson raises critical questions about the limits of human aspirations and the consequences that arise from wanting too much. The idea that wanting everything is a central problem reflects a broader commentary on human behavior and societal expectations, inviting readers to reflect on the balance between ambition and contentment.