As someone who writes, shares and connects on the internet, the idea of not being allowed to share information on the internet scares me. On the other hand, as a writer who one day hopes to publish a novel, I embrace copyright laws. Even as a blogger, having once had my work reposted without any acknowledgement, I like the idea of owning my words.
I’ve been listening to CBC Radio a lot this week, and the topic of SOPA (Stop Online Piracy Act) has been prominent in most of the shows, as it has been on most of the social media sites I frequent. So, I have heard both sides, and I can see good and bad in both.
I even learned about a new religion in Sweden called Kopemism (Yes, that is a Wikipedia link—cheeky eh?). The basis of Kopemism is the act of sharing files and information. After all, how would we know about the ten commandments or spiritual rituals or even family traditions if someone hadn’t shared that information with us?
When listening to the anti-SOPA interviews, I understood their concerns about being able to share files, and not having to worry about posting video of your kids dancing to songs you don’t have the copyright for. I also heard a whole lot of entitlement from people who thought they should have the right to free music, movies and literature.
I am all for free music files if they are posted and offered by the artists who made them. I am being honest with you when I say my family BUYS all their music files from iTunes. There are no less than 5 iTunes cards on my kitchen counter at this moment. We have to remember that time, effort and money go into creating music, entertainment and literature.
On the pro-SOPA side, I heard a lot of political talk that sounded like a desperate need to control something that had escaped their red tape and legislature. Then, on the up side, was the idea that there would be more control over criminal activity and identity theft. They claim that they are not looking to shut down sites like Wikipedia, but are focused more on "real criminals"—that’s what they say.
I am certain that everyone who has purchased something online has had this thought cross their mind: “I hope my credit card information is secure.”
So, tell me, do you think it’s about freedom of speech or freedom to steal?
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