How much has the Internet done for your business that a smaller, proprietary network wouldn't have?

Metcalfe's Law only kicks into high gear when everyone is capable of joining the same network. If there are three or four proprietary networks with limited and expensive communications between them, growth is hobbled.

Or, to take another tack, how much has access to clean water done for you? How much has access to a house that isn't burgled done for you?

Just because you personally never received a check doesn't mean the government hasn't given you benefit.