The Rise and Fall of the Mainstream Media

The Brass Check, published in 1919, is a critical analysis of American journalism, focusing on its commercialization and political biases. Sinclair critiques newspapers and the Associated Press for serving the interests of their owners rather than the public. He proposes reforms to address these issues, including laws to ensure accuracy and the unionization of journalists.

Here Comes Everybody explores how the internet and new communication technologies have significantly reduced the costs and difficulties of forming groups, enabling online communities to perform tasks that traditional organizations might find unprofitable. The book discusses various examples, such as the organization of flash mobs, mass protests, and channels of communication for political activists. Shirky argues that these changes are part of a broader revolution in social organization, challenging existing institutions and transforming how people interact and collaborate.