I do think it ups your odds of receiving back, though a tricky thing I've been trying to sort out is how much it also matters that you actively try to "own" it, so as to capture some of the rebound value.
For example, I sometimes have trouble deciding between writing up an explanation of something as a blog post, versus starting or adding to its Wikipedia article. If I'm being honest, I think the Wikipedia option often provides the most value to the world at large: my contribution will be found/read by more people there, can be improved upon by others to snowball into even more usefulness, etc. But I would probably capture more of the value if I blogged it, because that'd build my personal brand, could generate AdSense/Amazon revenue, etc., while it's harder (though not impossible) to parlay being a respected Wikipedia editor into any sort of benefit.
Interesting observation and distinction! You're right.
I share everything I learn - but only on my own website, not posted on some external site. I write book reviews and notes for every one I read, but only shared on my site, not even on Amazon where it would help more people. I guess it is somewhat selfish!
I want the benefit of getting the direct relationship with the reader, with no middleman.
It's not JUST giving, it's giving and wanting to capture the rebound value (as you say). Not as selfless as it seems.
Thanks for bringing this up. (And thanks for doing it on Hacker News, since I wouldn't have seen it on your own site.)
I don't think it is selfish at all. You put in the work to learn something and you are giving it away for free. People who are earnestly searching for information will find it one way or another.
I'd consider selfish to be learning something and keeping it all to oneself.
For example, I sometimes have trouble deciding between writing up an explanation of something as a blog post, versus starting or adding to its Wikipedia article. If I'm being honest, I think the Wikipedia option often provides the most value to the world at large: my contribution will be found/read by more people there, can be improved upon by others to snowball into even more usefulness, etc. But I would probably capture more of the value if I blogged it, because that'd build my personal brand, could generate AdSense/Amazon revenue, etc., while it's harder (though not impossible) to parlay being a respected Wikipedia editor into any sort of benefit.