In the past Free Speech did not equal Free Broadcast.
Only the Elite (ruling/non ruling) had broadcast access (who owned newspapers/radio/tv/satellite spectrum? only the rich could afford it).
Internet and social media have made broadcasting "free" technically. But they dont have any technical solution for the noise. They built it cuz they could.
Politically it hasnt solved any issue cause no one is really listening or can listen to anyone, when everyone gets shoved into the same room with their own mic to the common sound system. The more people in the room the less political action is possible.
HN could show people how many links and comments Dont get any traction. That rate will fall as more people use the site. And is an indicator of the real value of Free Speech. Which for the plebs will always tend to 0.
According to systems theory (and karl marx?) purpose of the system is what the system does. Here system = person.
And according to those who dont like that theory "The Protestant Ethic" is the reason for "The Spirit of Capitalism" or continuing to work/optimize/explore/exploit way past the point your Needs are meet.
Only the Elite (ruling/non ruling) had broadcast access (who owned newspapers/radio/tv/satellite spectrum? only the rich could afford it).
Internet and social media have made broadcasting "free" technically. But they dont have any technical solution for the noise. They built it cuz they could.
Politically it hasnt solved any issue cause no one is really listening or can listen to anyone, when everyone gets shoved into the same room with their own mic to the common sound system. The more people in the room the less political action is possible.
HN could show people how many links and comments Dont get any traction. That rate will fall as more people use the site. And is an indicator of the real value of Free Speech. Which for the plebs will always tend to 0.