A more charitable reading would be that "How to pick a startup" is the same thing as "How to pick a problem to solve." There are many problems one could solve and some guidance in picking which one can be useful.
However, I would question the idea that the only way to think is in terms of "problems." There are many valuable things people can do beyond solving problems. Solving problems takes care of our basic needs, and there's definitely something to be said about the relative importance of solving problems vs. doing other things (creating art, for example), especially if you want to "make the world a better place" (tm), but I feel it's still a bit limiting.
That's why I like the Y Combinator motto "Make something people want." Start from the want, not the "problem." Solving problems is just one of many things people want.
However, I would question the idea that the only way to think is in terms of "problems." There are many valuable things people can do beyond solving problems. Solving problems takes care of our basic needs, and there's definitely something to be said about the relative importance of solving problems vs. doing other things (creating art, for example), especially if you want to "make the world a better place" (tm), but I feel it's still a bit limiting.
That's why I like the Y Combinator motto "Make something people want." Start from the want, not the "problem." Solving problems is just one of many things people want.