Although the HBR article bemoans the lack of "big ideas" I think it makes the fatal mistake of focusing on Valley-centric ideas. Certainly there are still some big, Google-level ideas out there to be had, but there are other industries out there in which big idea can, should, and must form for us to advance as a civilization.

Map the human genome or build the next Farmville?

Find a way to grow food 300% more efficiently to meet the growing demands of the world population or make an iPhone app?

Why must everything be internet-based and somehow have to best Google?

Additionally, I think the author is having trouble filtering out the so called "noise" from the signal. I, for one, think it's terrific that a whole new class of small or "mom and pop" businesses can now exist on the Internet. Does that give us huge advancements as a species? Usually not, but hopefully it's paying their rent, which is great for them.

Yes, we need big ideas to move forward, but don't begrudge the next generation of Internet-based small businesses. The people starting these business are probably NOT the same people who would come up with the earth-changing idea that the author so desperately wants. And if you are one of those select few, then please, stay hungry and stay foolish.