In other words, about the same as the daily circulation of the Amherst Daily News in Amherst, Nova Scotia.

…and, judging from posted comments, many of them pretty much agree with me.”

Well, of course they do. That’s why they read what you write. I suspect that the majority of blogs are “narrowcasting” a.k.a “preaching to the choir.”

Of the blogs I sometimes read, it’s fascinating to watch a common reaction to a comment which criticizes the blog author’s viewpoint. The author often does not return a comment, as the acolytes thrash at anyone who dares to disagree.

Now there are lots of other considerations which ought to be taken into account. However, I suspect that many (most?) bloggers give themselves far too much credit for influence.