When we ascribe credit for an invention, determining who should be most noted by history, one criterion is looking at whose contributions turned out to have the most influence.
The process of recognizing inventors and their contributions to history involves evaluating the impact of their work. Not all inventors contribute equally, and their influence can vary widely. The assessment of who deserves credit often hinges on the significance and reach of their contributions to technological advancements.
In Walter Isaacson's book, "The Innovators," he emphasizes that determining historical significance is not just about who created an invention but also about whose ideas resonated most profoundly and fostered progress. This perspective encourages a deeper understanding of collaboration and the collective nature of innovation in the digital age.