This cartoon coincide's with when students lost internet access to only be regained after student's submitted their computer's to UTM staff to install software. Supposedly, the only motive behind this move was to keep the MS blast virus off of student's computers and UTM's network. However, I wouldn't put it past them that it was because they didn't like students using the LAN to share files, music, software, etc., and if you have ever met me then you probably know I have very strong views about filesharing, and how I believe it not to be theft/piracy, but human progression, that is being attacked politically by the RIAA as it would seem they do not want to compete with file-sharing networks. However, our goverment is one based on competition. The cinema survived television, VCR, and DVD recorders. I think the RIAA could use a little competition that would improve their product quality and lower prices. The RIAA is slowly realizing this. They are realizing they can't make this go away with sleazy legislation. I thought that this cartoon might make students think about what file-sharing really is a bit more as it may not be around much longer if we don't.
Basically the cartoon says this: I borrow books from the library, I have the ability to reproduce these books, and keep them as my own. The RIAA will dissappear right after the libraries and information sharing of all kinds ceases. |
