Stratechery Mistakes and Memes
Feb 9, 2021
The conversation kicks off with a critique of economic predictions about the internet, spotlighting the rise of social media giants. It dives into Metcalfe's Law and how digital platforms have reshaped communication and community dynamics, evidenced by the GameStop event. The discussion shifts to the role of digital tools in modern protests, emphasizing both their potential and pitfalls. Additionally, it explores how political narratives and storytelling shape movements, culminating in a fascinating analysis of memes as powerful communicative forces reflecting culture.
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Episode notes
Missing the Boat
- Ben Thompson admits to missing the boat on Facebook and the internet's impact.
- He focused on demand (aggregation theory) and underrated supply evolution.
TikTok's Content Strategy
- TikTok's success lies in surfacing compelling content regardless of the creator.
- This differs from Facebook, where content from one's network was initially prioritized.
Democratization of Publishing
- The internet significantly reduces fixed costs, enabling anyone to become a publisher.
- This democratization of information sharing has radical implications for society.