“What They Teach You at Harvard Business School: My Two Years Inside the Cauldron of Capitalism” is a memoir written by Philip Delves Broughton about his experience as a student at the Harvard Business School. In the book, Broughton provides an inside look at the curriculum, the culture, and the people that make up one of the most prestigious business schools in the world.
One of the key themes of the book is the focus on competition and success at Harvard Business School. Broughton describes the intense pressure that students feel to perform well and to secure high-paying jobs after graduation. He also explores the role that networking and personal connections play in the business world, and the emphasis that the school places on building these relationships.
Another important theme of the book is the emphasis on case studies and real-world examples in the curriculum. Broughton describes the rigorous approach that Harvard takes to teaching business, with a focus on analyzing real-world scenarios and developing practical solutions to complex problems. He also explores the limitations of this approach, including the potential for oversimplification and the risk of losing sight of broader social and ethical considerations.
Broughton also provides insights into the culture and personality of Harvard Business School, describing the attitudes and behaviors of his classmates and professors. He explores the emphasis on individual achievement and the tendency towards arrogance and competitiveness among the students. He also examines the role of privilege and entitlement in the business world, and the ways in which these factors can shape the experiences and perspectives of those who attend elite institutions like Harvard.
Despite the criticisms of Harvard Business School and the business world more broadly, Broughton acknowledges the value of his experience and the skills that he gained through his education. He provides examples of successful graduates who have gone on to make significant contributions to the business world, and argues that the skills and knowledge gained at Harvard can be a powerful tool for achieving success and making a positive impact on society.
One of the strengths of the book is its detailed and nuanced analysis of the Harvard Business School and the culture of the business world more broadly. Broughton provides insights into the experiences and perspectives of students and faculty, and explores the strengths and weaknesses of the educational model at Harvard. The book is well-researched and provides a wealth of information and data on the business world.
However, one potential weakness of the book is that it may be too focused on the experiences of Broughton and his classmates at Harvard. While the book provides valuable insights into the culture and curriculum at Harvard Business School, it may not provide as much insight into the experiences of those who attend other business schools or who have different backgrounds and perspectives.
Overall, “What They Teach You at Harvard Business School” is a valuable resource for anyone looking to gain insights into the world of business education and the culture of the business world more broadly. The book provides a detailed and nuanced look at the curriculum, culture, and people that make up one of the most prestigious business schools in the world, and explores the strengths and weaknesses of this educational model. While the book may be too focused on the experiences of those who attend Harvard, it is still an excellent resource for anyone looking to understand the forces shaping the global economy and the role of business education in driving these changes.