Smart People Should Build Things

272 pages, 2014

Andrew Yang

business & management

1082 books

economics & politics

987 books

Takeaways

Description

Andrew Yang, the founder of Venture for America, offers a unique solution to our country's economic and social problems - our smart people should be building things.

Smart People Should Build Things offers a stark picture of the current culture and a revolutionary model that will redirect a generation of ambitious young people to the critical job of innovating and building new businesses.

As the Founder and CEO of Venture for America, Andrew Yang places top college graduates in start-ups for two years in emerging US cities to generate job growth and train the next generation of entrepreneurs. He knows firsthand how our current view of education is broken.

Many college graduates aspire to finance, consulting, law school, grad school, or medical school out of a vague desire for additional status and progress rather than from a genuine passion or fit.

In Smart People Should Build Things, this self-described "recovering lawyer" and entrepreneur weaves together a compelling narrative of success stories (including his own).

It offers observations about the flow of talent in the United States and explanations of why current trends are leading to economic distress and cultural decline. He also presents recommendations for both policymakers and job seekers to make entrepreneurship more realistic and achievable.

The Importance of Entrepreneurship

Andrew Yang emphasizes the importance of entrepreneurship in the book. He believes that smart people should not just aim for traditional careers like law or medicine, but should also consider starting their own businesses. This can lead to innovation and job creation, which are crucial for economic growth.

The Role of Education

Yang also explores the role of education in shaping our career choices. He suggests that our education system should encourage more creativity and entrepreneurship. This way, students can be better prepared for the challenges of the modern economy.

The Power of Persistence

In 'Smart People Should Build Things', Yang shares his own experiences as an entrepreneur. He highlights the importance of persistence and resilience in the face of failure. So, if you're thinking about starting your own business, be ready to face some challenges along the way.

The Need for a Supportive Environment

Yang also points out that entrepreneurs need a supportive environment to thrive. This includes access to funding, mentorship, and a network of like-minded individuals. So, if you're planning to build something, make sure you have the right support system in place.

The Impact of Technology

Finally, Yang takes a look at the impact of technology on our lives and careers. He suggests that we need to adapt to the changing technological landscape and leverage it to create new opportunities. So, don't be afraid to embrace technology in your entrepreneurial journey.

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Andrew Yang's book is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the complex challenges we face as a society. It's a compelling call to action for smart people to take the reins and build the future.

Mark Cuban - Entrepreneur, Investor

Andrew Yang's book is a powerful exploration of how we can foster innovation and entrepreneurship. It's a vital read for anyone who cares about the future of our economy.

Arianna Huffington - Author, Businesswoman

Andrew Yang's book is a thought-provoking examination of the role of intelligence and creativity in shaping our society. It's a must-read for anyone interested in the future of work and the economy.