I remember reading that. I don’t think it matters that much in smaller communities where you are truly more important as individuals and where it’s not the only game in town.
Also, I think a community (digital or otherwise) forms around more than individual connections. Common interests bring people together and then they get to know each other. I’m starting to get to know the people in here a bit.
Finally, a group of helpful people that are quite knowledgeable on a topic that all congregate in one area is definitely more than the sum of the parts.
Just my two cents.