Meaning: The quote "Back then, I could be as obnoxious as I liked and people would still come back for more, they had to, I was Benjamin Cohen, the Dot Com sensation" by Benjamin Cohen, a journalist, reflects a time when the speaker enjoyed a level of fame and influence within the context of the dot com era. The quote suggests a sense of entitlement and arrogance, as well as a belief in the speaker's own indispensability.

During the dot com era, which refers to the late 1990s and early 2000s, there was a surge in internet-based businesses and a widespread belief in the potential of the internet to revolutionize industries. This period saw the rise of numerous entrepreneurs and tech innovators who became household names due to the success of their ventures. Benjamin Cohen's reference to himself as the "Dot Com sensation" indicates that he was part of this wave of individuals who achieved prominence and notoriety during this time.

The quote also conveys a sense of unchecked behavior and a lack of accountability. Cohen's assertion that he could be "obnoxious" without consequences suggests a belief in his own invincibility and a disregard for the impact of his actions on others. This attitude was not uncommon in the dot com era, where many entrepreneurs and industry figures were known for their brash and aggressive personas.

Additionally, the quote reflects the power dynamics at play during the dot com boom. Cohen's statement that people "had to" come back for more implies a level of coercion or necessity on the part of his audience. This could be interpreted as a commentary on the influence and control that prominent figures in the tech industry wielded over their followers and consumers during this period.

It is important to note that the dot com era was characterized by rapid technological advancements and unprecedented levels of investment and speculation in internet-based businesses. This environment contributed to a culture of excess, hype, and inflated egos, which is evident in Cohen's assertion of his own importance and the supposed tolerance of his obnoxious behavior.

In the context of Benjamin Cohen being a journalist, this quote may also serve as a reflection on the media landscape of the time. The rise of online journalism and the proliferation of digital media platforms during the dot com era presented new opportunities for journalists to gain visibility and influence. Cohen's reference to himself as a "Dot Com sensation" could be interpreted as a commentary on the changing dynamics of journalism and the newfound celebrity status that some journalists attained through their online presence.

In conclusion, Benjamin Cohen's quote encapsulates the brashness, entitlement, and power dynamics that characterized the dot com era. It serves as a reminder of the excesses and attitudes prevalent during a time of unprecedented technological advancement and economic speculation. The quote also offers insight into the persona and self-perception of a prominent figure within the context of evolving media and technology landscapes.