On the other hand a good litmus test for the worth of the company is whether it can afford to pay market rate (or more), and offer appropriate equity along with

On the other hand a good litmus test for the worth of the company is whether it can afford to pay market rate (or more), and offer appropriate equity along with that "something worth working on." This whole industry has a serious problem with compensation and startups are particularly egregious offenders. People are expected to work "for their passion" rather than for fair compensation for giving up quite literally a portion of their lifespan (time). It's absurd.