Ambition has nothing to do with intelligence - they are two completely different 'qualities'.
Those with considerably higher IQ's (maybe your brother in law) tend to be higher in autistic traits (not autism).
Having autistic traits can mean a lack of social skills - unlike the midwit for example, who excel at these skills.
Those expressing higher autistic traits are more interested in content - objective reality - rather than image - subjective reality. (political games playing and social influence, etc)
'Simple work' is often a choice - As it puts food on the table, while leaving their brain to think .
I think its impossible for those materially minded to believe (or even be able to grasp) this concept.
Hive is great example of this.