Against File Sharing: Networks Permit Crime
Entertainment companies as well as Christian groups, pro sports leagues, artist and industry trade organizations and state attorneys general (including those in the Carolinas) complain that file-sharing software allows illegal swapping of copyrighted movies and music, as well as porn. Musicians backing the suit include Jimmy Buffett and The Eagles.
THEIR ARGUMENT: File sharing is not the same as allowing the videotaping of TV shows, contrary to what software makers say. "When you're taping an episode of `Friends,' it's something that's free," said Rob Monath, a Salisbury lawyer who represents music performers and composers. "When you download a song, you're avoiding a purchase."
On the Other Side: Swapping Does No Harm
File-sharing software makers have support from consumer and computer rights advocates, conservative activists and telecommunications and consumer electronics trade groups. Musicians on board include rapper Chuck D and the band Heart.
THEIR ARGUMENT: Swapping does not hurt record sales; changing music and entertainment tastes do, according to a study co-authored by UNC Chapel Hill economics professor Koleman Strumpf. The music industry had a similar sales slump in the late 1970s as disco tanked. Compact disc shipments rose last year 3 percent. People downloading music aren't likely to buy anyway because they're mostly teens with no cash, he said.
