Faust, First Part discussion

Having worked with Peter - and the PayPal mafia more generally - for almost 10 years now, I have a unique perspective on Zero to One. Many of the ideas contained within are familiar to me. The launching point for the book is Peter's stock interview question - a question he asked me 8 years ago.

'What is something you think is true, but that most people disagree with you on?'

My answer at the time (2006) was: 'There is a bubble in housing.' Of course, that was cheating, since I knew this was a pet idea of Peter's. Not surprisingly, he asked if I had another answer. I didn't, but I extemp-ed some bs about how FDI in Iraq was a good idea. Luckily I was strong enough in other ways to make it through.

His breakdown of this question and why it's so difficult to answer is incisive and in itself reveals a truth that is lying in plain sight. Very few ideas are both contrarian and correct. And, yet, finding that combination is critical to successful investing, entrepreneurship, or even career development.

The book moves at a quick, clear pace with examples generously distributed throughout. Even the Bible quotes (and nerd Bible quotes - i.e. Lord of the Rings) feel natural or at least refreshing. Moreover, as Peter is wont to do, there are several easter eggs or dog whistles in the text which hint at some of Peter's more unique ideas. Of course I am biased, but particularly in the 'business' category, Zero to One is a special and thought-provoking book.