Clay Shirky just blew my mind

This is so insightful.

Another observation, time optimization-based technology seems to be playing a part in this as well. Viewing has become far more participatory, meaning that viewers are now empowered to elect which shows to engage in, and also dictate when they engage.

More and more people in my circle are tuning out of primetime TV viewing for this very reason. Deferring to a DVR really helps to initially filter things out by removing the pressure to "tune in and tune out" on a weekly basis.

Instead, by becoming removed from the cycle, viewers tend to 1) realize the ability to get to it eventually, and 2) gauge the necessity to engage at all. Once this happens, it usually opens up the cache of cognitive surplus.

Fascinating.

People who are able to put what's happening now into historical perspective, without the benefit of hindsight, are amazing.

I suppose this kind of person is known as a visionary? Whatever they're called, Clay seems to be one. Definitely inspirational.

"Isn't this all just a fad?"

Hugely inspiring, I got a big dose of perspective from it!

that's wonderfully put, and yes I think that's going to be a big deal. Gotta love the kicker of a story at the end... wisdom from the mouth of a babe ;)

great read!

the way he compares hours passively spent on watching TV to hours actively doing other stuff (like contributing to current) is great.

I wonder if that guy knows how to just relax? Editing wikipedia articles doesn't sound like my way of unwinding after a day of work. I know the greater premise is that we can all do more with our lives than just watch a TV show, but all work and no play kinda gives you a heart attack at some point.

excellent thoughts...thanks for sharing that...i wonder if clay has found current yet...seems to be right up his alley...