> YC is getting a big pass here.

The mistake is to regard YC/SV as disruptive. It isn't; it's about generating excess returns for a bunch of previously successful people. They have zero interest in fixing a broken status quo as long as they can continue to benefit.

> Just like the grade inflation in those good ole ivy leagues.

I only heard about this recently. The practice is abhorrent and further reinforces the entitlement complexes of some people.

I think if YC's mission were to reach out to people who aren't traditionally thought of as "entrepreneurial", but had a bias toward the "pedigreed" people then I could agree. I'm not sure that's the case (in either respect--I haven't actually seen data regarding the provenance of the people who comprise the companies YC has accepted).