In one sense, the Internet is like the discovery of the printing press, only it's very different. The printing press gave us access to recorded knowledge. The Internet gives us access, not just to knowledge, but to the intelligence contained in people's crania, access to the intelligence of people on a global basis.

Don Tapscott’s quote draws a parallel between the Internet and the printing press, two revolutionary technologies that transformed the way humans share and access knowledge. He acknowledges that while the printing press allowed for the widespread distribution of recorded knowledge, the Internet takes this a step further by offering access not only to information but to the intelligence of individuals around the world. Tapscott highlights the profound shift from static, written knowledge to dynamic, real-time access to the collective wisdom and insight of millions of people.

The quote emphasizes the interactive and collaborative nature of the Internet, which makes it different from the passive reception of information through printed books or articles. Through the Internet, individuals can contribute their own knowledge, ideas, and expertise, creating a vast, global network of collective intelligence. Tapscott’s use of the term "people’s crania" reflects the idea that the Internet allows us to tap into the cognitive resources of individuals, fostering new forms of collaboration and problem-solving.

The origin of this quote comes from Tapscott’s work as a business author and technology expert, particularly in his book Wikinomics. Tapscott has long been a proponent of the Internet’s ability to empower individuals and transform industries through collaboration and the sharing of ideas. His writings often explore how digital technologies are reshaping economies, societies, and cultures, making this quote a reflection of his belief in the democratizing power of the Internet.

Ultimately, Tapscott’s quote highlights the profound shift from the distribution of static knowledge to the global exchange of human intelligence. By comparing the Internet to the printing press, he underscores its potential to connect people across borders and create a more interactive and innovative world. The Internet, in this sense, is not just a tool for accessing information, but a platform that enables the exchange of ideas, fostering collective intelligence and global collaboration.