I agree, geography is becoming less important. I've done a lot of my best work from tiny outposts in rural Canada where the internet was my only lifeline to peo

I agree, geography is becoming less important. I've done a lot of my best work from tiny outposts in rural Canada where the internet was my only lifeline to people who even knew what Javascript was. The internet has really transformed possibilities for a lot of people who are otherwise trapped in intellectual wastelands. I think culture far outweighs other factors. Hacker News is useful because of its culture, not its algorithm (otherwise Digg would be just as good) or the size of its user base. The internet lets you find and connect with a culture that amplifies your instincts and interests. When that can lead to in-person interaction as well, all the better (and there are definite advantages to that).