Essays that have shaped my thinking in profound ways. Each one has planted a seed that continues to grow.
A masterful analysis of social platforms through the lens of status-seeking behavior. Wei's framework for understanding social capital accumulation changed how I think about community building and social dynamics on the internet.
While often cited, this essay's true power lies in how it reframes the creator economy from mass market thinking to niche community building. It's a foundational text for understanding internet-native business models.
Captures how narratives function as worlds and engines of change. It reframes business strategy through the lens of world-building and internal logic, showing how stories shape both external perception and internal reality.
I love this essay. It changed how I think about the purpose of publishing - not just to broadcast, but to create serendipitous connections through shared interests.
A thought-provoking analysis of how our social networks shape our thinking and identity. It reveals how the structure of our connections influences not just what we know, but how we think and who we become.
Small groups create and capture value together. It introduces the concept of squad wealth as a new model for collective value creation, bridging social and economic capital in the digital age.
Toby cooked. This essayexplores how the internet has transformed our relationship with identity, consumption, and community, suggesting new ways of thinking about cultural production.
A fascinating look at how ideas evolve and spread online. It reframes meme culture as a complex ecosystem of meaning-making, showing how digital culture shapes our collective imagination and understanding.