On 27 Aug 97 at 12:38, Shane Nelson wrote:

<snip>

>
> I didn't think copying software was criminally illegal. ie: You can
> be sued for copying it, but not charged with a criminal offense such
> as theft. If I'm right (which is open to debate) then comparing it
> to the theft of a car isn't appropriate.

Morally equivalent.  Whether its a criminal or legal case would
depend on the jurisdiction.

>
> It's more like borrowing a friends cassette tape and making a copy
> for yourself. Or recording a song off the radio. I'm curious how
> many people who are so gung-ho against copying software, have copied
> audio.

That depends on intent.  Cases you describe are illegal.  Copying a
CD you own, for playing in your car cassette, is something I'd be
comfortable with.  After all, I'm only using it in one place at any
one time.  Akin to network software licensing, where you can run a
program on a given number of workstations simultaneously.

>
> Or went to the library and photocopied a specs sheet, or had one
> faxed, when it should have been purchased.
>

Crazy example.  Most manufacturers are *happy* for you to have their
data, and will give you the books, CD's etc.  Do you feel guilty
downloading pdf files?

For some purposes, photocopying copyrighted material is allowed.
Most libraries have a sign describing 'Fair Dealing'
MikeS
<mikesmith_oz@relaymail.net>