Yep, old news.

But if you are fascinated, I suggest picking up Chris McDougall's book "Born to Run."  It's a good, inspiring read.

thedevotedrunner makes some very good points.  Some runners are converts to barefoot, some use it as a tool, and some can't see the point.  I do some barefoot running, but for me it is a tool, just like speedwork and long runs.  I think you can learn many things about running form barefoot, but it's not a cure-all, and it's not instantaneous, and it has to be approached gradually.

Christopher McDougall did precious little barefoot running in his book.  Ditto for the Tarahumara, who mostly run in sandals.  I would have to say the book is more about minimalist running than barefoot.  McDougall got his good form and relief from injuries the honest way - by working long and hard with several coaches - and he talks about it in one chapter of his book.

Len

I fall into the barefoot running used as a tool camp.  If you're trying to improve your form then give it a try.  Just don't go very far, at first.  Also, your typical thick-heeled trainers will make it hard to maintain good form.  You'll constantly fight your shoes.  I'd recommend something fairly light without alot of heel-to-toe drop.  Once I tried running barefoot for a very short distance then running in my Nike frees, a mid/fore foot strike felt much more natural.  Until then, it just never felt "right".