Cory Doctorow is back, today with his co-author Rebecca Giblin and their new book “Chokepoint Capitalism” today at 5pm SLT.

Why does the internet of today suck so bad? What happened to the promise of a world without gatekeepers, without middle men (in publishing, music, the whole creative industry pretty much) who squeeze you (the creative person!) dry before you (and your fans) even start having fun with your creations?

Rebecca Giblin and Cory Doctorow know what happened because they been there from the beginning (ca 1995-ish) and they paid attention.

In their book they give a comprehensive account of the disruptive forces that were so welcomed in the early days of the web and which turned out to be the beginning of a monopolist’s wet dream, or maybe more apt, a creative person’s worst nightmare.

Perhaps it does not only matter who gets their hand on technology first - the worker or the capitalist - perhaps it also matters what kind of legislation exists before, during and after initial disruption?

The studio system in Hollywood was bad, record labels turned not only Prince into a slave but made even yours truly (at the tender age of 23 when he was signed to a major label) into a slightly depressed cynic, albeit only temporarily.

So now what? Well, first of all, it is NOT over: Rebecca and Cory will illuminate in their excellent book several strategies to fight back and fighting back we must. All of us who want a world that is rich in risky niche wonderful shiny diverse inclusive creativity.

Kind of like as if the Second Life ethos would apply to the entire REAL world?

Please note the special time of 5pm SLT on November 8th = Australians will probably like this news!!!

Meantime: visit the Book Club archipelago and watch past shows via the playlist below:

If you'd like to suggest an author, please email slbookclub@draxtor.com.