Book lovers discussion

I didn't see a topic for this, so thought I'd start one. It's been much on my mind lately & then a friend turned me on to this fantastic interview between Barry Eisler & J.A. Konrath. It's long, but well worth the read.

http://barryeisler.blogspot.com/

What do you think? Are the publishing companies dead? Will this help or hinder your reading &/or the art of writing?