The golden passport

This intellectual history delves into the influential role of Harvard Business School (HBS), revealing its power and impact on modern society. While Harvard University is well-known, HBS has arguably surpassed it in shaping contemporary capitalism. An HBS degree is often viewed as a "golden passport" to elite status and access to the highest echelons of corporate power. Many recognize the strength of the HBS network, yet few grasp the dynamics that have solidified its status over nearly a century. The author examines how HBS, despite its success, has not fulfilled its founders' mission to cultivate leaders who address business challenges in socially constructive ways. Graduates excel in their fields, but their contributions do not always align with ethical practices. This exploration raises critical questions: Has HBS failed to meet its objectives? Is it complicit in the moral shortcomings of Western capitalism? In an era marked by economic inequality and political turmoil, this incisive yet balanced portrayal provides essential insights into an institution that significantly shapes societal structures and influences our lives.