More precious than gold, platinum and rhodium is actually something intangible, yet so ever sought after by big corporations like Google, Facebook, Apple, and Amazon alike. This commodity is non-other than information.
Despite information becoming more accessible than ever through the internet, do not be misguided and think information is cheap. Governments around the world pour billions of dollars in obtaining and safeguarding information through espionage. Admission fee for premium Information is still being sold in the lecture halls of universities and colleges. Businesses obtain information on their target market in order to better market their products and services. However, no one else has mastered the management and manipulation of information quite like "the big four".
For starters, these companies have mastered the art of PR and you'll rarely hear any bad press about them. They understand the power of information and has absolute control on the distribution of news. For most of us, Google and Facebook are able to maintain a near benevolent image because, on the surface, they are providing a free service that compliments our modern lives; Instantaneous answers to all your questions, connect with friends around the world and a quick dopamine fix while we're at it. No one dares to question God of his intent and Google is the equivalent of a modern God. So what is the price you ask?
Unaware of by most, information comes with a hefty price tag and the cost is our privacy. Most probably never gave it much thought and would be willing to trade their privacy in a blink of an eye for God in our pockets. People aren't timid to ask God questions they would otherwise be too embarrassed to ask a friend or family. Ludicrous questions such as "meth recipe" or "where is the internet" or "what's the average penis size?" suddenly isn't so crazy to ask. They've become so integrated into our everyday lives that it is becoming futile to resist and that's what makes them dangerous.
The truth is, whenever we use their services we are paying with information on ourselves. "Please fill out this form with your name, your birthday, phone numbers and email. Also, feel free to tell us your favorite books, movies, and TV shows while you're at it. " Every time you search for something online, you are providing the search platform and your IPO valuable insight into your search behavior. This is information that can be sold to marketing agencies to display on your searches products and services you are seeking. Like a fine wine, the valuation of Google and Facebook will only increase with time as people continue to use their services and add to their already massive database. We are solely responsible for their massive success and adoption.
The purpose of this article is not to vilify the companies mentioned but to state facts for the sole purpose of increasing awareness. The success of these companies demonstrates perfectly the power of information. As business leaders in their respective industries, these companies all wield tremendous powers to influence our daily lives so it would be wise to study them and how they came to be. I hope these companies are aware of the large impact they have on the world and remain ethical in their business practices. Be mindful of what information you are giving out freely about yourself, even on the internet because information is power.
For those seeking more insight and detailed analysis on "the big four", I highly recommend reading "The Four" by Scott Galloway. This article was inspired by it.