The Variables within Downloading
Thursday, October 15, 2009 by Jess Leijh
After discussions about downloading, it is clear that it is not exactly black and white. This is evident when it is placed alongside other crimes of stealing, such as in the 'Downloading is stealing' trailer we all fast-forward through.
This video compares downloading films and music to stealing tangible items such as handbags. Although downloading is considered stealing, I do not think it can be compared to this. When downloading, you are making a copy of the original item, not taking it away completely. So even though those who produced it, lose money, they do not lose the item itself. Another way in which it differs is context- when stealing someone's bag, you are in public or someone else's private space, know the consequences of your actions, and physically have to plan how to succeed. Downloading is de-contextualised, and therefore the stealing feels anonymous, also less deviant because of how easy it is to do from your own bedroom.
I am not saying it is ok to download, but if the industries want to teach us not to, they should create better warnings, not ones that are so easily dismissed and laughable....
This video compares downloading films and music to stealing tangible items such as handbags. Although downloading is considered stealing, I do not think it can be compared to this. When downloading, you are making a copy of the original item, not taking it away completely. So even though those who produced it, lose money, they do not lose the item itself. Another way in which it differs is context- when stealing someone's bag, you are in public or someone else's private space, know the consequences of your actions, and physically have to plan how to succeed. Downloading is de-contextualised, and therefore the stealing feels anonymous, also less deviant because of how easy it is to do from your own bedroom.
I am not saying it is ok to download, but if the industries want to teach us not to, they should create better warnings, not ones that are so easily dismissed and laughable....