The rise in the power of the general intellect in an economy allows for other material costs to be lower. Since the general intellect is the aggregate of ideas and knowledge in a society, it removes itself from the economy which is based on the allocation of scarce resources only. This results in lower prices and the ability to produce more effectively by everyone using the commons of ideas. The use of the commons also requires a new way for individuals to gain an income that is beyond the wage system.

 
Jacques Ranciere gives a very effective definition of democracy. Democracy requires an equality that precedes freedom. The democratic form allows for a contingency of the sovereign position of authority, where anyone in the society can take on this position of authority. The equality of democratic participation is the general background, while the freedom of human desire is the particular expression. Freedom and equality are not contradictory elements, but in fact have a direct reciprocal relationship.

 
Here is a illustrated progression of Western civilization, usually depicting the negative aspects of human nature in history, and featuring the magnificent artwork of Milo Manara.

 
The use of Facebook has allowed people to connect with old friends and classmates, in a way that is much easier than just an occasional E-mail. But it is also possible for people to be Facebook friends in large quantities with people who one has never met or associated with. The ability to form community is thus stunted, and isolation can be increased inadvertently.