[creeves]

Well when you consider the second half of that type of statement is that you are expected to earn less because you are being given a large equity opportunity in the company you will help build...the statement makes a lot more sense.

To flip your question around: Is there any other for-profit industry where employers wouldn't laugh in your face for saying you would like 0.8% of the company worth in stock options in addition to your salary...

It all boils down to whether you believe in the company you are building. If it is positioned to do great, then of course you would want the equity for that IPO. If you don't have that faith, then what are you doing interviewing at that company anyways...Use your skills to get a higher paying job without the options.