>Money has marginal utility for me. After a certain amount I do not care.
And this is exactly why I go for the absolute maximum I can: I care about my own projects more than I could ever care for any company or their projects. The more money I get the less I have to work for other people.
I disagree with you; Fox also agrees with me on this point:
If the company can overuse its employees, it will regardless of what they are paying for salary.
If you are going for money (which if you have no other choice) than maximize! You will be abused so at least get the moola for. There is a reason why they call work work and have to pay people for it.
In the above scenario, where the job is just a job go for the money and kiss up to the boss. Less work and you are well insulated in crisis as others have mentioned.
There are plenty of people at work who do nothing more than be friends with the execs. They add little value in a company. This oddly considered acceptable. It is almost as if work is daycare for your not so bright but very happy friends. It reminds me of the cliques in high school.
Sadly this true in even in startups. So-so went to high school with the founder. Great but the nice guy is incompetent. Basically you soon realize that the startup is an adult daycare center as well.
And this is exactly why I go for the absolute maximum I can: I care about my own projects more than I could ever care for any company or their projects. The more money I get the less I have to work for other people.