What Exactly Is a16z's 'New Media'? New Media Is a Migration of Power
The article explores a16z's concept of "new media," arguing it represents a fundamental shift in power dynamics rather than just new content formats. It posits that in an era of content oversupply and near-zero distribution costs, attention and trust have become the new scarcities. The core value is no longer mere exposure but the ability to influence decisions—termed "agency"—the power to make others act based on your judgment.
The piece contrasts old media (centralized, institution-owned, creators as employees) with new media (decentralized, individual-as-node, creators building direct influence). This transforms media from an institutional asset into personal capital and a tool of power.
a16z treats this media capability as core infrastructure, recognizing that the traditional model of "capital → company → market" has flipped. Now, "agency → community → market → capital" is key, as capital alone no longer guarantees action. The article concludes by introducing Internet Capital Markets (ICM) as the next evolution, solving new media's flaw by turning influence and consensus into tradable, ownable capital structures—moving from "right to distribute" to "right to price." The ultimate leverage shifts from code to new media: scalable narrative, judgment, and taste.
marsbit01/23 08:41
