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> The very short answer is that "an edge" is only loosely coupled to superior knowledge management. In the vast majority it is obtained by proximity to existing

> The very short answer is that "an edge" is only loosely coupled to superior knowledge management. In the vast majority it is obtained by proximity to existing power structures I somewhat disagree. A memex is effectively the plain old notebook/wiki, with the potential capability raised to the second or third power. Does a personal diary, calendar, home budget, or a small library help you get into places of power? For average people, no. But it does make organising life, and figuring out where you are, and charting how to get to where you want to be, much easier than it would be for your peers without such tools. So yes, it gives you an edge. Whether that edge has anything to do with power is a completely orthogonal concern.

nologic01 3y ago
I would readily admit that my analysis of memex's (non-)edge is a bit of a quick extrapolation, weaving together some broader themes as potential explanatory factors. There is an empirical fact though, that begs for some explanation: These tools are not used as much as one would think is commensurate to their (potential) added value. There is no virtuous cycle that would fund more development, create sharper "edges" etc. The connection with "power" might appear remote but consider e.g. why powerpoint (no pun) - a manifestly inferior piece of software - became so succesful.