If you really want to understand what is going on in the world, in terms of linux, economics, business, etc., then I can think of no better way than to read the following book: "Wikinomics" by University of Toronto professor Don Tapscott and London School of Economics grad Anthony Williams. It's an easy 314 page read, and is filled with examples of mass collaboration, such as linux, wikipedia, google, flickr, amazon, GoldCorp, Proctor and Gamble, etc. and how they are changing the world. And I think it should be recommended, no, make that compulsory reading for all politicians, school administrators, PHBs, etc.