TED08: A Counter View

Even if you could afford the $6000+ for the iconic TED conference, would you pay? BusinessWeek's Sarah Lacy admits it's likely sour grapes that she's never gotten a press pass for TED, but she takes the event to task for what she perceives as its elitist attitude.

My take: TED fills a market niche, or else it wouldn't be successful. There clearly is a need for its affluent audience to gather, learn, and be exposed to ways in which they can impact world problems. I've truly enjoyed the TEDs I've attended, and have learned much about producing great events from its formula.

But affluent its audience is, which inevitably results in a socio-economic monoculture. I'm glad there are other events that can address a broader range of attendees, while still striving to provide a great experience and learning opportunity.

gB