Agree completely with your comments. But the ability to access information will change the world, which I think is the main point of the commentary. Instead of only the elites of the world having this ability, soon everyone will...if they want it.
The basis for all education is wonder. Those that wonder why and are motivated, will find the answer. These are the knowledge seekers and ultimately the ones who move us forward. Now all of the seekers of answers to important questions have the means to get them. That has never been the case before.
But I believe that the only real problem we have here in America is that we do a poor job of educating those that wonder. I think the authors point is that now poor schools will get bypassed, and that’s a good thing.
I have to flag this very idealistic statement:These are the knowledge seekers and ultimately the ones who move us forward.
The structure of modern civilization which is being overturned before our eyes used to vet and required proof of fitness for any who would rise to significant places of influence and/or power. That structure, where it hasn't already been undone, has decreasing credibility and effectiveness. In other words, insitutions that once protected are now doing so less and less; in fact, many have become hostile to their constituents.
When the means of power and influence are "open to all as never before [to paraphrase]" the question of fitness for it becomes paramount.
Those who are going to "move us forward:" are you sure you want them to?
In this wild-west of means that society is becoming, morality is the guidance and strength that is utterly required. But of course, the most persuasive and desirable of power seekers will be completely devoid of it.
The ramifications are startling.
"Knowledge is power" is now become a threat, because what passes for knowledge is but a shell of it and can be created on the fly and delivered en masse to...anyone, regardless of motive.