[gkoberger]

I didn't necessarily say public good or public progress.

There's two ways capitalism can go: it's either the ability for anyone to build and create something from nothing, or a small group of people amassing a large portion of the power and wealth.

Unfortunately, we see mostly the latter. But YC has always felt like the former to me... if capitalism is going to exist, it's wonderful that anyone can participate. And yes, YC has made billions with this strategy and it's not a charity. But that's what makes it special – they've found a way to make money by enabling and supporting hard working people.

That being said, YC does give back. They invests in and help non-profits (https://www.ycombinator.com/nonprofits/). I did contract work for their first non-profit, Watsi, and YC was incredibly active in helping them (with no hope of any profit in return).

And finally, to answer your question about actors for good: pg and jessica are brilliant people who genuinely care. As are most, if not all, of the YC partners.