1. Zero to One: Notes on Startups, or How to Build the Future by Peter Thiel
There are many books on startups, and this is undoubtedly one of the field’s best. This bestselling book by Peter Thiel, co-founder of PayPal, offers unconventional advice for entrepreneurs seeking to create something entirely new rather than improving existing ideas. You will learn how to make your business work and make sure your plans come to fruition. Thiel emphasizes the importance of developing a monopoly through innovation and achieving transformative progress. If you want to learn more details, check our Zero to One summary.
2. Superintelligence: Paths, Dangers, Strategies by Nick Bostrom
There was no way this list existed without a book on AI. After all, artificial intelligence is considered to be a key driver of our future progress. Nick Bostrom, in his Superintelligence, poses critical questions about its potential impact on humanity. The book explains different scenarios where AI surpasses human intelligence and the strategic challenges that arise. It is a foundational text for understanding the risks and opportunities of AI. Everyone will find something interesting in this book, both tech enthusiasts and just curious readers.
3. Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman
How to make your decisions effective? Is there a way you can improve your thinking? Well, Nobel laureate Daniel Kahneman believes that the answer is “yes.” His Thinking, Fast and Slow explores the two systems of human thought: the fast, intuitive System 1 and the slow, deliberate System 2. Kahneman provides profound insights into decision-making, biases, and cognitive errors. He explains how to benefit from each of these systems and elevate your leadership skills. It is a very practical read that will significantly improve your performance at work. Discover more in our Thinking, Fast and Slow summary.
4. Secrets of Sand Hill Road by Scott Kupor
Are there any venture capitalists here? Even if you are not finance savvy, this is a book that will finally explain the world of venture capital in simple words. Scott Kupor’s Secrets of Sand Hill Road demystifies all of the processes behind it. As a managing partner at Andreessen Horowitz, Kupor provides actionable advice for entrepreneurs seeking funding. You will get insider recommendations, go-to guidelines, and a lot of inspiration.
5. The Making of a Manager by Julie Zhuo
We aren’t born managers; we become ones. Julie Zhuo became a rookie manager at the age of 25. In her book The Making of a Manager, she developed a complete guide for new managers who find leadership challenging. She gives practical tips and personal anecdotes and elaborates on how to build successful teams and promote a positive work culture. Zhuo will help you move from an average to a great manager.
6. Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah Harari
Just imagine that one book covers a mind-blowing 13.5 billion years of pre-history and history. In Sapiens, Yuval Noah Harari explores the history of humanity, from hunter-gatherer societies to the present day. He reveals how the first bread was made, how the first religions were formed, and answers almost all questions about mankind. It is a deep exploration of human culture, economics, and technology. It’s a must-read for anyone seeking a broad understanding of humanity’s past and the forces that shape our future.
This small list is sure to enrich you with a large set of skills and useful knowledge. If you are a beginner in the worlds of tech and business, these books will become a cornerstone of your development. Ranging from all the most relevant topics, from entrepreneurship, leadership, and human history to the future of AI, you are sure to learn a lot of new things. Remember, that Sam Altman was also once a teenager who had a huge dream, and today he is the CEO of the world’s leading AI company. Let this list of Sam Altman book recommendations equip you for your amazing project! Good luck!
