My undergraduate degree was in history, and I wish I had been smart enough to really excel at maths, physics, chemistry or biology because... the voyagers and adventurers and real contributors - that's where they come from.

Michael Moritz’s quote—“My undergraduate degree was in history, and I wish I had been smart enough to really excel at maths, physics, chemistry, or biology because... the voyagers and adventurers and real contributors - that's where they come from”—reflects his personal reflection on his academic path and the impact it had on his career. Moritz, a successful venture capitalist, acknowledges his background in history but expresses a desire that he had excelled in more scientific fields such as maths, physics, chemistry, or biology. He believes that the true pioneers and innovators in the world often come from these disciplines, as they lay the groundwork for groundbreaking discoveries and advancements in fields like technology and science.

The origin of this quote comes from Moritz’s career in technology and venture capital, where he has been involved in investing in and supporting the growth of major tech companies like Google and Apple. As someone who has worked closely with scientific and technological innovators, Moritz’s admiration for the achievements of those from technical fields like science and engineering is evident. His quote highlights how the pioneers of history, especially those driving major advancements, often come from a foundation in scientific disciplines, which require problem-solving, critical thinking, and creativity.

By expressing a wish to have excelled in maths, physics, chemistry, or biology, Moritz emphasizes his belief that these fields offer more direct paths to becoming the voyagers and adventurers who shape the future. While history is certainly important in understanding the past and its influence on current events, he sees fields like science as the birthplace of those who have made substantial contributions to society and the world at large. His regret reflects his respect for the transformative power of scientific and technological innovation.

Ultimately, Moritz’s quote reveals his acknowledgment of the value of both history and science, but also his recognition that the most significant advancements in society often stem from the hard sciences. It is a thoughtful reflection on the different paths to contributing to human progress, suggesting that while history can shape our understanding of the past, science and innovation are the driving forces that push humanity forward.