Google Cofounder Imparts Unconventional Wisdom to Michigan Graduates
In 2009, Larry Page, the cofounder of Google, imparted a thought-provoking address to graduates of the University of Michigan, asserting that “technology, and especially the internet, can truly facilitate a certain laziness.”
With a current net worth of $174 billion, as reported by Bloomberg’s Billionaire Index, Page encouraged the graduates to harness technology as a means of gaining leverage, rather than relying solely on conventional hard work.
During his commencement speech, Page reminisced about the genesis of Google at Stanford University in the late 1990s, crediting the pivotal advice of his advisor to “work on the web for a while” for setting in motion the creation of a search engine that would transform access to information.
This advice was particularly timely, coinciding with a period of unprecedented growth and investment in the internet.
The Value of Smart Work Over Hard Labor
To elucidate his philosophy, Page provided a compelling illustration: “A group of three individuals can develop software that millions can utilize. Conversely, can three people answer the phone a million times?”
This principle of scalable influence not only guided the evolution of Google from a research initiative to a colossal $2.3 trillion technology enterprise that dominates the realms of search, advertising, and artificial intelligence.
Page’s seemingly “lazy” philosophy has yielded remarkable success. Google made its public debut in August 2004 at $85 per share, achieving a valuation of $23 billion. Today, its parent entity, Alphabet, holds the eighth position on Fortune’s 500 list and ranks second globally among technology firms by revenue.
The company’s mission—to “organize the world’s information and make it universally accessible and useful”—exemplifies the principle of leveraging technology for maximum impact.
Technology: A Gateway for Aspiring Graduates
In a parallel narrative, current Google CEO Sundar Pichai, who has recently joined the ranks of billionaires with a net worth of $1.1 billion, resonates with similar notions of embracing discomfort and collaborating with exceptional talent.
However, the contemporary tech landscape introduces new challenges, with some Google executives advocating for 60-hour workweeks amidst the competitive race in AI development.
Despite the mounting pressures within the industry, Page’s original message remains poignant for today’s graduates, who are navigating uncertain job markets influenced by advancements in artificial intelligence.
He concluded with an empowering note: “Don’t give up on your dreams. The world needs you all,” urging spirited young individuals to pursue their curiosities while leveraging technology to amplify their societal impact.
Source link: Timesofindia.indiatimes.com.
