> If that's true, why do leadership, VCs, and eventually either the acquiring company or the public markets keep falling for it then?

If I had to guess, it would be because greed is a very powerful motivator.

> As the old adage goes: "Don't hate the player, hate the game?"

I know this advice is a realistic way of getting ahead in the world, but it's very disheartening and long term damaging. Like eating junk food every day of your life.