TeledyN

There are so many things to say about this. There's the idea that the punishment is excessive (Steve Lawson was one of the first to point out that $22K per MP3 is a complete joke). There's the idea that the record industry continues to fight against inevitable change, instead of working hard and in good faith to develop a viable business model that takes into account new technology, the livelihood of musicians, and the needs of audiences. And there's the idea that none of this will do what the RIAA appears to believe it will do -- specifically, intimidate other music fans into giving up "filesharing" altogether.

That last bit is key. Let me say it again, in a slightly different way: this case is not going to have much (or any) effect on the day-to-day lives of music fans -- except perhaps to galvanize them against the industry a bit more. So it's basically a very damaging exercise in futility, a lashing-out, a naked and spiteful display of power by an already-doomed giant.

Here's hoping this registers,here's hoping this draws a line in the sand, here's hoping this divides between those who are with me in preserving the last shreds of our culture and those who say eh? what? but I like all those artists! which is fine, if you want to play that game. Those who step across that line, however, I have a job for you, a dangerous mission of utmost importance, a charge to carry a precious cargo through a dangerous land, a call to preserve a gift from your ancestors.

"Men and women wanted for hazardous journey, no small wages,
self-funding, bitter cold, long months of complete darkness,
constant danger, safe return doubtful.
Honour and recognition in case of success"