On Fri, 25 Jun 2004 07:24:47 -0700, Mark wrote:

If I share an MP3, I have "stollen" some precioous intellectual
technology.

I find this somewhat ironic.
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Let's put it in the context of computer software. If a friend gives you a
copy of Microsoft Word for free, you've deprived Microsoft of at least $100
in profit.

Or, more accurately, compare it to books: if someone gives you a PDF file of
a HARRY POTTER book, author J.K. Rowling (and her publisher) have lost
several dollars in profit. The similarity here is, a PDF file doesn't have
the quality of a fine hardbound book. But the INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY it
contains is identical.

Or to movies: you can go on the street right now and buy a horrible-looking
copy of SPIDERMAN 2 on DVD, made in China. Despite the fact that it's a
"digital copy," it looks like crap. And the filmmakers and the studio won't
make a dime on it.

The same is true of an MP3 file. If you own a bad-sounding MP3 copy of a new
song that you could have paid for, the artist, the publisher, the
songwriters, and the record label are still being stiffed on money they
didn't get from you.

Whether the quality of the recording is good or not is not the point.
Thievery is still thievery, regardless of whether it's a bad-quality copy or
a great one.

If you ever create something unique yourself -- like a work of art, or good
writing, or a piece of music -- and then have someone steal it, THEN you'll
know how it feels.

--MFW