Why is it so hard to just be yourself in this competitive society?

Question

My friend published his first scientific paper when he was 14 in the field of Botany. He graduated from college, went on an interview to a top doctoral progam. The advisor said, 'You're welcome to join the program but to tell the truth, there's nothing we can teach you that you don't already know' He joined anyway, and got his Ph.D. last year. He taught for a year, quit and now is writing fiction and working as a waiter. He said he only went through the program because it would make him look respectable to others. And he claims to be a lot happier now.that he realizes he doesn't need that kind of 'respect'. Is this scenario common in our competitive society today?

Answer 1

Capitalism!