Whether lawyer, politician or executive, the American who knows what's good for his career seeks an institutional rather than an individual identity. He becomes the man from NBC or IBM. The institutional imprint furnishes him with pension, meaning, proofs of existence. A man without a company name is a man without a country.

Summary

This quote suggests that in America, people tend to prioritize being associated with well-known institutions rather than having an individual identity. Whether in the fields of law, politics, or corporate world, individuals seek the prestige and stability that comes with being affiliated with renowned organizations like NBC or IBM. This association provides benefits like a secure retirement plan, a sense of purpose, and proof of their existence and relevance. The quote goes on to imply that without such institutional affiliation, people feel disconnected and lack a sense of belonging in society.

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