"The problem with long reading lists is that it forces you closer to a box-checking mentality."
Most MBAs are checkboxes so someone can get a higher paying job. Most people do not care about the theory, nor are they really concerned with being a good leader outside of their ego.
You’re being purposefully reductionist. But even if that’s that’s the sole purpose any one would do seek an MBA the GPs point stands — reading this list doesn’t even tick the “MBA checkbox”
The people seeking these kinds of lists are seeking checkboxes to tick. Of course this isn't the same as earning an MBA, but I guarantee some of the people searching for this kind of content will find it and follow it, believing it will get them somewhere because they checked the boxes on the list.
"At that point isn't all you have what you learn?"
Yes, but without the credential will you be given the opportunity to use it? Is it worth anything without being used? These are not the kinds of questions readers are asking themselves when looking for MBA reading lists. Many see the MBA as a checkbox (which it is) and seek checkbox style lists of books. So the length/style of the list isn't leading to the checkbox mentality, rather that mentality is common in the context of credentialization.
Most MBAs are checkboxes so someone can get a higher paying job. Most people do not care about the theory, nor are they really concerned with being a good leader outside of their ego.