” as long as you can set up your own blog.”
and this is free and easy, many online services offered

“maybe.”
this is my experience

“except when they are private”
Yes well, thats a choice, and sometimes a useful option to take.

“as a culture, rather than technology.”
In terms of ownership, this is my Blog and I have control over it. I can permiisions, preferences, etc. This is empowering for me as a user of technology.

“The one thing you don’t mention is the very stong link with time - helpful in seeing the ‘narrative’ in other lives”
True, a good addition.

“they empower individuals removing ‘gatekeepers’ from the equation” as long as you can set up your own blog.

“they are quick and easy to contribute to” maybe.

” they are readily accessible and are inherently ‘transparent’ in nature” except when they are private.

“they are person centric” as a culture, rather than technology.

The one thing you don’t mention is the very stong link with time - helpful in seeing the ‘narrative’ in other lives.