The Desktop by Steven Johnson
Johnson's arguments bring to light some of the very issues we are having now with user interfaces and the 'desktop.' It's true that now even though it is so intuitive for the ones who grow up with the technology, we still have problems with the pointing and clicking and menus. There is nothing new about the platforms that come out now. Each version looks a little spiffier but it doesn't enhance our interaction or make it easier.
As far as those 'Quakespace' communities where they are tied by bloodlust, they still are as popular as ever (think World of Warcraft). However, we also have things like Second Life, where people can make miniatures of themselves, create communities, and even go to school. "The gift of built space" has become possible.