A fine observation Wrinkly and nicely put.
It is an amusing analogy from Brin, but not one that bears even a little bit of scrutiny. But then I don't suppose he was advancing it as economic theory.
My short time on here so far has taught me that members are as quick to temper and as they are to taking offence. I didn't think Rotherham people (RGS educated or not) were such sensitive souls.