Quote:
Originally Posted by Adje
Still it's not stealing. I didn't take the property, I used/duplicated it but that's completely different from stealing.
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If you are in ownership of somebodys property (property does not have to be tangible, you do not have to be able to hold it in your hand) in breach of the law, it is stealing.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Adje
I download a lot and what I like I buy. I'm not bothered if it's illegal or not but for me it's the only way to keep it affordable.
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As I said earlier in this thread, if you steal a loaf of bread to stop you from starving to death, or if you steal medicine because you are in poor health, then you have a moral (if not legal) excuse for stealing.
What's the worst that can happen if you don't own an album?
There is no moral justification for stealing something that is not vital to your well being or the well being of others.
Most people who defend illegal downloads have a real crusading streak. They feel like Robin Hood taking on the big bad record company.
(I think they protest too much myself and are just trying to cover up the fact they know they're doing wrong).
Here's a few differences betweem Robin Hood and an illegal downloader.......
The Sherrif Of Nottingham liked to knock peasants about and demand unfair taxes. If you didn't pay you would be sent to jail, or executed.
The record company makes music albums. They don't send a group of badass knights to beat the shit out of if you don't buy their albums.
Robin Hood robbed from the rich to give to the poor.
Downloaders rob from the record companies to give to, well, they just keep it actually.
The men and women of Sherwood were so oppressed and starved that many would die without Robin Hoods help.
The dowloader might have to choose between buying a CD and a Big Mac
Stealing something you you cannot afford and do not need is greed.
Nothing more, nothing less.
Stealing something you can afford and do not need is just being cheap.
Both are illegal in the eyes of the law.