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Data Quote by Steven D. Levitt

“Information is the currency of the Internet. As a medium, the Internet is brilliantly efficient at shifting information from the hands of those who have it into the hands of those who do not. Often, as in the case of term life insurance prices, the information existed but in a woefully scattered…” quote by Steven D. Levitt
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““Information is the currency of the Internet. As a medium, the Internet is brilliantly efficient at shifting information from the hands of those who have it into the hands of those who do not. Often, as in the case of term life insurance prices, the information existed but in a woefully scattered way. (In such instances, the Internet acts like a gigantic horseshoe magnet waved over an endless sea of haystacks, plucking the needle out of each one.) The Internet has accomplished what even the most fervent consumer advocates usually cannot: it has vastly shrunk the gap between the experts and the public.””

Steven D. Levitt

About This Quote

Source Speech: Interview on Economics and Technology, 2009

The Internet reduces information asymmetry by making data widely accessible, narrowing the gap between experts and the public.

In simple terms: Internet makes information easy to share, closing knowledge gaps.

Key Takeaway

Leverage online tools to democratize expertise.

Themes

information technology democracy economics

Mood

optimistic analytical

Type

observational inspirational

When to use this quote

  • consumer advocacy
  • policy making
  • education
  • business strategy

Key Concepts

network effects information asymmetry digital diffusion

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we ensure equitable access to online information?
  • What barriers remain for marginalized groups?
A Different Perspective

Access still depends on digital literacy and infrastructure.

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