U.S. study shows Internet discussion groups = popularity contests

A 6-year study of online discussion groups by the Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication at the University of Georgia shows that 2 percent of online discussion-starters received a disproportionate 50 percent of replies.  Additionally, those with many online connections received "preferential attachment" over people with smaller followings.  http://www.torontosun.com/2011/06/10/internet-a-popularity-contest-study