The Stanford freshmen who want to rule the world . . . will probably read this book and try even harder

This spring, Stanford graduate Theo Baker is set to release a thought-provoking book titled *How to Rule the World: An Education in Power at Stanford University*. This work, which has already garnered attention with an excerpt published in *The Atlantic*, offers a deep dive into the pressures and expectations faced by students at one of the world's most prestigious institutions. Baker, who has already won a George Polk Award for his investigative journalism, explores the unique environment at Stanford, where young entrepreneurs are often thrust into an elite world dominated by venture capitalists. He paints a vivid picture of a culture where students receive significant funding before they even have their first idea, raising questions about the blurred lines between mentorship and exploitation. In a frank discussion with Steve Blank, a prominent instructor at Stanford, Baker reveals that the university has become a breeding ground for startups, with Blank referring to it as "an incubator with dorms." This metaphor suggests a troubling reality: students now enter Stanford with the expectation of launching successful startups, often prioritizing ambition over personal relationships and life milestones. The narrative raises critical questions about the true cost of this relentless pursuit of success. Baker reflects on the plight of students like his friend, who left Stanford to chase his entrepreneurial dreams. While he achieved remarkable financial success, he sacrificed his personal life in the process, highlighting the often overlooked emotional toll of such choices. Baker's excerpt also addresses the pervasive issue of fraud within the startup ecosystem, suggesting that the allure of success can lead to unethical behavior without repercussions. He cites industry statistics, noting that while 100% of entrepreneurs believe they are visionaries, 99% do not achieve their lofty ambitions. Furthermore, Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI and a figure many Stanford students aspire to emulate, critiques the current venture capital landscape. He points out that those who excel at presenting themselves as innovators often overshadow the true builders who are busy creating meaningful products away from the spotlight. *How to Rule the World* promises to be a timely exploration of the intricate dynamics between power, ambition, and the cost of success at Stanford. Interestingly, this critical examination may resonate with the very individuals it critiques, potentially being embraced as a hallmark of the institution's ability to produce influential thinkers, writers, and entrepreneurs.