The Internet: plumbing or shared space?

Stowe Boyd picks up nicely on David Weinberger's Web as World post.

The optimism is very helpful, and the focus on humans in groups first and as isolated individuals second is great. But, really, we're both interdependent and individual. And it kind of makes me a little crazy. Especially when I'm in a group that's trying to get something done.

Thoughts and practices for managing ourselves in groups have been around for quite a while, and come from many different perspectives. In 2003 Clay Shirky posted a talk he gave that explained a psychodynamic perspective on group behavior.

We need to be reflective about this web we're building; we need to ask questions about our behaviors. This web is a wonderful opportunity for learning about ourselves, our groups, and how to be productive together. I like it, but it makes me edgy ....

Small size, but enormous range

I took the cat to the vet today for an extended stay and some tests. First was the trauma of tracking her down, putting her in the pet carrier, and leaving her at with the vet. But when I returned home and stepped in the door I was overwhelmed at how empty the house felt. I've noticed this before, but today the feeling was strong. It's just amazing that a seven pound, relatively docile cat can fill a two story house with a palpable energy and warmth. Where does that energy come from?