Viral Spiral, published this month by The New Press, is a  stunning account of the rise of the digital commons —  and why it matters to our economy, culture and democracy.   Reporting from the heart of the 'free culture' movement  that has brought us open source software, Wikipedia, remix  music, amateur videos, and new models of 'open business,'  David Bollier provides the first history of the struggle to invent  a new digital republic that honors freedom, participation,  social equity and innovation.

Bollier is co-founder of Public  Knowledge, an advocacy organization dedicated to defending  the information commons, and editor of OntheCommons.org.  His previous books include Brand Name Bullies: The Quest  to Own and Control Culture and Silent Theft: The Private  Plunder of Our Common Wealth.