Paul is a Silicon Valley-based forecaster who studies the dynamics of large-scale, long-term technological change and advises corporate, NGO and governmental clients worldwide. He is an Adjunct Professor in Stanford's School of Engineering and previously was Chair of Future Studies at Singularity University. Paul is also a non-resident Senior Fellow at the Atlantic Council, and a Fellow of the Royal Swedish Academy of Engineering Sciences. Paul was the founding Chair of the Samsung Science Board, and has served on the technology advisory boards of AT&T and Motorola, as well as the boards of a range of public and private companies. Paul holds degrees from Harvard College, Cambridge University, and Stanford University.
Why does Silicon Valley produce revolutionary innovation after another? Conventional wisdom credits big visions, great management, and a history of success. Conventional wisdom is wrong. Silicon Valley’s unique edge is built on the rubble of failure, poor management, and a crucial third ingredient – myth. Myth is the hidden force behind the success of Silicon Valley and it's creation myth is far older than you would ever guess. It is why startups often succeed where incumbents fail, and it is the secret to making audacious projects a success. It is a myth so powerful that it inspires innovators who can't even guess its origins - and in that fact lies the secret of how even the largest, most hidebound organizations can harness the power of myth to create effective change and innovation.