Pushing the question about 'why is it suddenly popular' can appear to be a veiled attempt undermine a clearly anti-competitive abuse, or be trying to appear con

Pushing the question about 'why is it suddenly popular' can appear to be a veiled attempt undermine a clearly anti-competitive abuse, or be trying to appear contrarian and savvy. But, the sooner this issue reaches a critical mass of attention, the better. This is a problem that is likely having a detrimental affect on economic growth and innovation, and that could get worse. Giving the benefit of the doubt as to why this could be more popular: 1. Confirmation bias. You're assuming your observation is correct that it suddenly has blown up relative to past coverage. Maybe you just haven't noticed it. If you search for stories on HN, it's a common topic over the years. I am more of the view that it has actually increased in popularity over time because of #2. 2. The abuse is becoming more commonplace. What started getting abused due to hot tech talent markets is now being applied to more job sectors. If some companies try and successfully abuse noncompetes to reduce turnover or wages, then other companies will follow. It's a tactic destined to snowball until a court case strongly rules against the broad application of NCs, or law is passed prohibiting this abuse. 3. Political issue "consciousness raising" could have some exponential shape. Your inquiry is more of a general interest in political science. There is likely some literature on how this process happens that would provide insight.