Meaning: This quote by Eric Avery, a well-known musician, touches on both the positive and negative aspects of the web. It highlights the freedom and accessibility that the internet provides, but also brings attention to the potential downsides of this openness.

The first part of the quote, "But the great thing, and the horrible thing about the web," immediately sets the tone for a discussion of the dual nature of the internet. It acknowledges that the web can be a powerful tool for sharing information, connecting people, and creating opportunities, but it can also be a breeding ground for misinformation, harmful content, and unethical behavior.

The phrase "you can just throw stuff up there" reflects the ease with which content can be published on the web. Unlike traditional media such as print or broadcast, the internet allows individuals and organizations to share their thoughts, creations, and information without the need for extensive resources or approval from gatekeepers. This democratization of content creation has empowered countless people to express themselves and contribute to global conversations in ways that were previously impossible.

Avery's mention of the low cost of publishing on the web adds another layer to this discussion. Unlike physical media or traditional advertising, the internet offers a relatively inexpensive platform for reaching a wide audience. This accessibility has leveled the playing field for creators and businesses of all sizes, allowing them to compete and thrive in ways that were once reserved for the privileged few with significant resources.

However, the quote also points out the potential downsides of this open and low-cost nature of the web. When content can be "thrown up there" without much effort or investment, it opens the door to a flood of low-quality, misleading, or harmful material. The lack of gatekeepers means that misinformation, hate speech, and other objectionable content can spread rapidly and have real-world consequences.

One could argue that the abundance of content on the internet can make it difficult for valuable and accurate information to stand out. In a landscape where anyone can publish anything, it can be challenging for users to discern what is trustworthy and reliable. This issue has become increasingly pressing in an era of "fake news" and online disinformation campaigns that can sway public opinion and undermine democratic processes.

In conclusion, Eric Avery's quote encapsulates the dual nature of the web, highlighting both its empowering potential and its potential for harm. The internet's ability to allow anyone to share content at minimal cost has revolutionized communication and creativity, but it has also created challenges related to content quality, misinformation, and ethical considerations. As the web continues to evolve, it is crucial to address these challenges while preserving the openness and accessibility that make the internet such a powerful force for connection and innovation.