Abstract: A computer system for publishing content includes a categorization member, a rating module, a user profiling assembly and a suggested-reading engine. The categorization member enables an author-user and reader-users of an authored work to categorize content of the authored work using a fixed taxonomy, keywords, tags and/or keyword combinations. The rating module enables reader-users to rate authored works and makes a determination of quality of each authored work in the system. Rating includes reader-user response activity such as number of times the reader recommends, forwards or otherwise effectively promotes the authored work. The user profiling assembly measures words and word combinations used (written or read) by a user and generates therefrom a profile of the user. The suggested-reading engine is responsive to the rating module and provides a ranked list of suggested reading (authored works) for a user.

Abstract: In a global network of computers, a method ad system of profiling a user for targeting advertisements is disclosed. The method and system obtains and/or infers demographic information from end-users using on-line means. The invention next monitors end user activity and determines keywords therefrom. The system and method profiles an end user as a function of the determined end-user activity keywords and obtained/inferred end-user demographic information. Profiles of end-users are matched against targeted profiles of advertisements which are defined by the respective advertisers. This results in targeting advertisements to end-users based on end user profiles. Advertisers bid for advertisement placement with the system. In some embodiments, the system employs Vickrey auction type bidding. Using observed user behavior and the auction results, ads are prioritized for selection and viewing placement in a manner that provides the greatest potential value to the system.

Abstract: A global computer network system includes a method and apparatus for writer compensation, a method and apparatus for reader rating and a method and apparatus for enabling readers to tip an author. The system further provides content organization according to user relationship and website community. Another feature effects content browsing by relationship of users in the system. The system provides determination of content scarcity and advertisement (ad inventory) scarcity. The system also includes user-specified comments or reader indications on system contents such as authored works and bookmarks.