I think for people in the free software community it was a bit more obvious. Before the internet became ubiquitous we already had random professionals creating

I think for people in the free software community it was a bit more obvious. Before the internet became ubiquitous we already had random professionals creating world class software for free. For me, the biggest surprise is actually the opposite. I'm amazed at how well the music industry has managed to maintain a grasp on the popular music industry even though the tools to create and distribute music are essentially free. Although, I think it can't last to be honest. Already I watch more Youtube than TV and I don't think I'm alone (though admittedly I don't watch much of either).