Freeconomics

A couple months ago I wrote that free is the new black. In the latest issue of Wired magazine, editor in chief Chris Anderson has an outstanding article on the topic and how it is redefining the way we do business online. Chris was the author of the incredibly influential book The Long Tail. This article is a preview of his next book, Free, due out in 2009.

The incredible shrinking content

First there were full concerts and recitals. Then came pop music and albums, then singles, now ringtones. First there were plays, then movies, then TV shows, now downloadable clips and vignettes. People aren't reading print newspapers as much anymore. We want our information fast. In bulleted lists. We want the soundbites and the highlights.

Despite having more of it than ever, content is shrinking in size. Wired Magazine examines the trend this month: Snack Culture. It's recommended reading.

Update: Seth's take.