NeuroGovernment

To paraphrase Homer Simpson’s observation about beer.  I read an interesting post about the seeming elitism of the TED Conferences and I somewhat agree with the author’s assertion:

“This is classic TED. Take an idea that has gained currency. Self-appoint some (non-genuine) champion of that idea. Change the idea subtly to align with the political preferences of the ‘elite’ audience. Then market the new version of the idea (and its new champions) as the original idea that has been and is widely accepted.”

It’s not just TED.  You see this all over the web.  A few consultants, speakers, writers, whatever get together and self-proclaim each other the elite of their field (an especially audacious example – The Digerati).  They build a website, hold online conferences, and video their talks so that the “masses” can bask in the assembled geniuses.

Sometimes, the stuff is good.  I especially enjoy the TED talks and some of the Digerati have interesting insights.  Other times, it is pure pretentious crap.  And woe be to any outsider who dares question the wisdom of this assembly of genius.

But, so what?  Before the Internet and Web 2.0, these mutual admiration societies could run a magazine or discussion salon that few others had the money or expertise to run.  Now, anyone with an online connection can become their own elite group.  Don’t like TED?  Then, build your own group of gurus.  Start a Facebook group, create a group blog, film some videos.  Gather around your friends, give each other titles, and publish your great works on Scribd.

Soon, you will be one of the elite and will have lots of fans.  And other people who can’t stand you and create their own group in response to your elitism.  Democratizing elitism through social networking.

Added some Berkshire Hathaway stock to my Sharebuilder account as the stock split now allows me to finally afford a few shares.  I’ve always admired Warren Buffet and his management/analysis skills.  And he is the cornerstone of my favorite piece of advice about advice.

When receiving advice (unsolicited or solicited), always consider two things.  First, does the person actually follow their own advice?  Second, how well did they do following their advice?  Given the choice between receiving advice from your average stockbroker or from Warren Buffet, who would you listen to?

Seems simplistic and rather obvious but I have been amazed at the number of people who turn down Warren Buffet when they don’t like the advice.  They would rather look for feel-good advice then the simple and effective advice such as eating healthy and exercising more.

But it’s this quest for the overnight, silver bullet piece of advice that drives much of the advice industry.

I chose the Nook over the Kindle.  And I am finding the Barnes and Noble prices competitive with Amazon.  Plus, when I buy an ebook from B&N, I actually can keep the ebook.  I’ve been an Amazon customer since 1997 but I have had enough of their censorious behaviors.